Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, well-known for its varied housing options and multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous opportunities right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
During my search for a residence, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts an outstanding transportation system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses—since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily—I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I shared university pursuits with a friend, and we agreed to cohabit, which led to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, resulting in diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiar aspects of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.