Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive period, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a broad range of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students find numerous options right at their fingertips, with both student residences and private rentals featuring choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas international pupils can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London’s outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and transit between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside the central city, with fares fluctuating according to distance and train company pricing structures. The high living costs near major attractions in Central London were mitigated by attending university with a friend, enabling us to share a room and significantly reduce rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to discover in private housing.
It was vital for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards areas that remind them of their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features countless Chinese diners, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve just as a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.