Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it’s a relatively brief period, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing options and lively communities. Students have plenty of choices available to them. Both student residences and privately rented accommodations offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting easier for university. On top of that, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside the city center. Prices for traveling between zones on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of different train operators. The presence of major landmarks in Central London contributes to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which helped reduce our rent significantly. I found intercollegiate student accommodations preferable for meeting peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent only a handful of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London greatly depend on individual interests and requirements. As you look for a new place to stay, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of the city.