Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights. London is lively, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. For students, there are plentiful options available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore their prospective lodgings online, complete with details on facilities and public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London boasts a commendable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, opting to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services serve regions outside the Underground’s reach, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare system. While Central London is home to significant attractions, it also raises living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from varied backgrounds and a similar age bracket, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering varied residential areas. The majority of international students seek a touch of their homeland within London. Southall, in West London, is characterized by a large South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery markets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area home to Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, immerse yourself in cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.