Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve acquired considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its varied housing arrangements but also for its multicultural populace. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer variations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared 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 housing options online, including the amenities provided and their proximity to public transport.
During my housing search, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and commuting between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The living costs in Central London, due to its major attractions, are steep. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less accessible in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral element of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for the comfort of their home culture within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End boasts a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.