Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residence in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide array of housing choices and energetic communities. Students can easily find numerous options available to them, with both student accommodations and private rentals offering features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal houses. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while overseas students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living options online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
During my housing hunt, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and railways, simplifies travel and navigation across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for cross-zone travel vary depending on distance and each train organization’s fare structure. The high living costs near Central London’s attractions are notable. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while at university has enabled us to significantly reduce our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with a diverse group of peers and those around the same age, a combination that’s more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, showcasing various neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity resembling their home countries. Southall in West London is known for its large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End provides many Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich areas.
The ideal locations for living in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When on the quest for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.