Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a significant amount of insight. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just due to its varied housing options but also because of its active communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide an array of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared homes. Home students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, review amenities, and gauge distance to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a fantastic public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigating and traveling across zones. I aimed to curtail travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, the availability of oyster card options has reduced the cost of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s attractions are notable. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations with the hope of meeting peers from various backgrounds and similar age cohorts, which is harder to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.