Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have acquired substantial insights. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its myriad housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review available features, and locate nearby public transit connections.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six circular zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. Instead of utilizing the bus or tube for short distances, I decided to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary by distance and the fare systems of the individual train operators. Central London presents higher living expenses due to its major attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a feat that would be challenging with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural essence, showcasing a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comforting familiarity of their native country in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When searching for accommodation in London, embrace its various housing alternatives, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.