Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I have gathered several observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, attributed not just to its varied housing options but also its lively communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, along with amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a commendable transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel between zones. I aimed to minimize commuting costs since inter-zone travel can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to locate in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on shopping trips, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian cuisine, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These areas exemplify community neighborhoods.
The ideal spots in London really depend on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.