Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy duration, it has been an enlightening experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its distinct communities. Students have a wide array of choices available, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, featuring amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, examine amenities, and discover nearby public transportation links.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize transportation expenses, which can reach up to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal travel, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travels to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these lines fluctuate based on distance and individual train companies’ fare systems. Due to Central London’s prominent attractions, living expenses are elevated. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland also exist. Living near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies optimizes time spent on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial element of its cultural essence, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for accommodation in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and energy that this extraordinary city offers.