Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its various housing choices but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an array of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential housing online, check available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I sought to secure a room to rent in Central London to be near major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can run up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for travel between zones on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its main attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, greatly decreasing rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.