Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this time. London is a dynamic city, teeming with distinct housing prospects and lively communities. Students indeed have a myriad of options, from student housing to private rentals, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students may utilize resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, check available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones simple. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as trans-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I preferred to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground grid, covering regions outside central London. Fare costs for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London, also home to numerous attractions, presents elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is trickier to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retail locations such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during examination weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural richness, resulting in a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional garment boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.