Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve garnered valuable experiences during this period. London stands as a bustling metropolis, featuring a vast selection of housing types and dynamic neighborhoods. Students are presented with a variety of alternatives, including student accommodations and privately rented places, with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Residents can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while overseas students can investigate potential living options online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, assessing facilities and transport accessibility.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to find a room for rent in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground area, connecting to zones outside central London, with fare differences based on distance and train operators. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, substantially cutting rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that’s harder to find in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, particularly during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a connection to their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.