Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing options and multicultural communities. Students have numerous choices, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible accommodations online, assess facilities, and locate public transport connections.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something more challenging to achieve in private properties.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time for errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a significant aspect of its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is an energetic locale packed with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The prime areas to live in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.