Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t lengthy, I’ve gained valuable perspectives during my stay. London is an energetic metropolis, not only in its variety of housing choices but also due to its multicultural environment. Students have a multitude of options available. Both university residences and private accommodations provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate the amenities, and consider their distance from public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key sights, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation system in London, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend further than the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes vary according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly decreasing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is often tougher to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural fabric, offering a plethora of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their native cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London vary depending on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.