Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Even though this duration may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing options and a rich mix of communities. Students find themselves with a wealth of alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodging options online, complete with amenities and distance to public transport.
As I looked for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the city and between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones can incur a cost of up to £5.25 per day. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk for shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The high costs of living near the main attractions in Central London are notable. Luckily, I had a university friend with whom I decided to share a room, significantly cutting down our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London contribute significantly to its cultural richness, providing various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, features a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. This is just a glimpse of the different community neighborhoods.
The ideal districts for living in London are subjective and depend on personal preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and abundance of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.