Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a substantial amount of time, I’ve absorbed a lot during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its plethora of housing choices but also because of its multifaceted communities. Students have various options available. Both student residences and private rental properties offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central regions. London features an impressive transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel among zones. To manage travel expenses, as inter-zonal transportation can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Still, oyster card options have made traveling to university much more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central area. The pricing for inter-zone travel on these services differs based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The costs of living near Central London’s prominent attractions can be steep. Thankfully, by sharing a room with a friend while attending university, we managed to significantly lower our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shopping venues such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save precious time on tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of vibrant neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the vibrant West End of London is a bustling area lined with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the uniqueness and wealth of accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.