Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not a lengthy duration, I have gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis that provides a variety of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices, from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, explore amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my hunt for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates smooth movement and travel across the zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can hit £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fare prices for these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of the respective train operators. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver during errands, particularly throughout exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a wide range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the West End, showcases numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.