Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis that presents a variety of housing options and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment tours, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, assess facilities, and discover public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of riding a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground’s coverage, extending into the outer zones of London. The costs for inter-zone travel via these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of train companies. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend while attending university, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate housing to meet peers from varied backgrounds who were of similar age, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, providing various neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End offers a multitude of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London largely depend on personal preferences and needs. To secure a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity of housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.