Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long time, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, marked not only by its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also by its rich community life. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, review facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transit.
During my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, including the subway (tube), buses, and trains, allows for smooth navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk for short trips rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground system, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high demand for Central London’s main attractions drives up living costs. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending the university helped lower rent significantly. I opted for intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is often harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves effort on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural landscape, offering a colorful array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London look for a slice of home. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling hub filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new place to stay in London, appreciate the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.