Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this time. London is an energetic city, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
During my search for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport infrastructure, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easier to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its significant attractions. Thankfully, university attendance with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating the chance to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during the exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. A number of international students look for connections to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community areas.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of its accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.