Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though not an extensive duration, it has been sufficient to glean a few insights. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide an array of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered the costs of commuting to university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s coverage, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to encounter in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was vital for my convenience. Main supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies helps save time on tasks, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Most international students here look for familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is notable 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 festivities. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, take the opportunity to embrace the diverse and rich housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.