Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gained considerable insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its multitude of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, check on available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I frequently opt to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare scheme of each rail company. Central London boasts prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I had a university companion, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery establishments was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area offering Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the plethora of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the comfort and vibrancy of this remarkable city.