Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though not an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a variety of housing choices and communities. Students can select from numerous options, including student residences to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and discover links to public transport.
While on the hunt for a living space, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I sought to lower commuting expenses since traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the fare structures of train companies. Central London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, considerably reducing our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End presents numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation opportunities, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.