Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my ninth month of residing in London. Though this duration may seem brief, I’ve acquired some valuable observations during my stay. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its array of housing alternatives but also by its varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can efficiently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom offer international students the chance to explore potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
While searching for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each railway provider. Central London’s prominent attractions result in elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find within private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, particularly throughout exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are only a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.