Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a significant duration, I have acquired some valuable perspectives in this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only in its variety of housing arrangements but also in its multitude of communities. Students are presented with a wide array of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals come with selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their potential lodgings online, including amenities provided and distance to public transport.
In my hunt for lodging, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose walking short distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the scope of the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Charges for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts prominent attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I shared accommodation with a friend at university, which greatly lowered our rent payments. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, eagerly anticipating encounters with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an assemblage less common in privately rented spaces.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to find a taste of their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is distinguished for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. The West End’s Chinatown is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These instances illustrate just a few of the culturally rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.