Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I have gleaned several insights despite the relatively short duration. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a variety of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available, ranging from student residences to private dwellings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodations, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I opted to walk shorter distances to economize on travel expenses, as journeying between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. The Oyster card options have rendered university commutes less expensive. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones fluctuate according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, I shared a room with a friend while attending university, which significantly reduced our rent. I chose intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
Being close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to critical stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, providing a spectrum of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music scene. The West End’s Chinatown is home to a plethora of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations. These neighborhoods exemplify community living.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.