Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered substantial insights. London is a vibrant city, celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student residences and private housing provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation through the city. I sought to minimize transportation expenses, as travel between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I decided to walk short distances rather than use public transport. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have reduced university commuting costs. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high costs of living in Central London are influenced by its attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lessened our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, which would have been more challenging through private accommodations.
Living close to grocery shops was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on shopping trips, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, offering an array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London garners attention for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features countless Chinese eateries, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace its varied housing choices, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.