Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While that may not seem like a long duration, I have gained extensive insights. London is an energetic metropolis, providing an array of housing alternatives and multicultural communities. Students have various options available, from student residences to private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore accommodations online, assess facilities, and locate public transport connections.
During my search for living arrangements, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates smooth navigation between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 a day; therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card choices have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones located outside central London. Ticket prices fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are due to its major attractions. Luckily, I had a university companion, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. The common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are an integral part of its cultural landscape, resulting in varied neighborhoods. Many international students often seek familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese cuisine, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are subjective and vary based on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and variety of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.