Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of my stay in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired significant insights. London is a bustling city, noted not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to review potential accommodations online, evaluate facilities, and check accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I made a choice to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, serving areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living costs. Thankfully, having a friend at university allowed us to room together, which significantly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as they provide opportunities to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to find echoes of their home country in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is filled with diverse Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.