Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve accumulated some observations throughout my time here. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its range of living arrangements but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to check potential living spaces online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables easy movement and transit between zones. To minimize travel costs, since inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 a day, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs of central London’s major attractions are notable. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, replete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End boasts a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.