Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its wide-ranging housing selections but also for its multicultural populace. Students are presented with numerous options. Student accommodations and private rentals provide various choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential residences online, review facilities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy mobility across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for bus or tube rides. Oyster card options have lessened university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground network. Fare prices for inter-zone trips on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which might have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. The ethnic communities within London are pivotal to its cultural essence, producing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland in the city. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a noteworthy Afro-Caribbean community paired with a dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal districts for living in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence, appreciate the diversity and wealth of London’s housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.