Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked the completion of nine months residing in London. While this duration may not be significant, I’ve gathered several observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its varied housing choices but also due to its communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can readily schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodging options online, alongside amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport infrastructure, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses as inter-zonal travel might amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach a wider area beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. The prominent tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of varied neighbourhoods. Many international students search for familiarity akin to their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery retailers, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas for residence in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. While on the hunt for accommodation in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.