Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although not a long duration, I have acquired several insights. London is an energetic city, not merely due to its varied living options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student accommodations and private rentals present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential places online, along with their facilities and closeness to public transport.
During my accommodation search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transport system that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. To reduce travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, being at university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lessened rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek to find familiarity with their native countries within London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of vibrant community areas.
The best places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.