Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have absorbed quite a bit. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private housing include alternatives such as ensuite and suite baths, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, review amenities, and gauge distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London for closeness to main attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating straightforward navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to its significant attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to encounter peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have proven more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant assortment of various neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, houses a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for residing in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for new accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.