Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve acquired valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its multitude of housing choices but also for its rich mix of communities. Students enjoy a wealth of options available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, verify facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transit.
During my hunt for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to be near prominent attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and movement across zones. I aimed to cut down on transport expenses since inter-zonal fares might reach £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to the presence of key attractions. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End offers a bustling atmosphere rich with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in the city, take advantage of the diverse accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this remarkable city has to offer.