Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not appear to be a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some valuable observations during this timeframe. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just because of its extensive selection of housing options but also due to its varied communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer an array of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city itself is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an efficient transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make navigating and traveling between zones seamless. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have significantly lowered university commute costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the central area. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably decreased our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix less probable in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is quite a task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, creating a colorful array of different neighborhoods. Many international students in London search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.