Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering a rich variety of housing choices alongside its communities. Students find a wealth of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective living arrangements online, assess the features, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zonal travel. I intended to minimize commuting expenses as moving between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for bus or tube rides, I decided to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made daily commutes to the university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground’s coverage, extending to zones outside the city center. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London is home to key attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I started university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which notably reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps to streamline errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural diversity, resulting in varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a taste of their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End boasts an array of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. As you search for a new residence in London, cherish the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.