Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residence in London. While it might appear brief, this period has been quite enlightening. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its varied housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Student accommodations and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, verify amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to significant landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the core. London features a remarkable transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can accumulate to £5.25 daily, I opted for walking short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare system of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodations, substantially lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of home through familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for residing in London hinge on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, relish the diverse and abundant accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and cherish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.