Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not merely for its assortment of living arrangements but also for its myriad communities. Students have plentiful options available. Both student housing and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with classmates from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnically diverse communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, houses a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, offers a bustling space featuring numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural activities. These exemplify just a few of the community-dense neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and needs. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, celebrate the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.