Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. Though this may not seem lengthy, I’ve picked up a lot of insights. London is a vibrant city, offering not only a range of housing possibilities but also a rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of options available, including student residences and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while international students can access platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transit options.
In my hunt for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, opting instead to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on both distance and the fare structures of various train companies. The high living expenses in Central London are due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, since I attended university with a friend, we shared a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I favored university student housing to connect with peers from different backgrounds, making it easier to find similar-age residents compared to private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies helps streamline errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural fabric, showcasing a vast array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is notable for its robust South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, features an abundance of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These highlight only a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. In your quest for accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.