Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also its communities. Students have a multitude of options readily available. Both student residences and private housing present a variety of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my pursuit of accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy traversal between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel might cost up to £5.25 per day, thus I elected to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, servicing areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its main attractions. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly reduce rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more elusive in private properties.
Residing near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities within London are integral to its cultural landscape, showcasing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling locale populated with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify only a fraction of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.