Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, thanks not only to its varied housing options but also to its vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 a day. Consequently, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced travel costs for university commutes. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on the distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to numerous major attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, leading us to share a room and significantly cut down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are woven into its cultural essence, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.