Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As I recently marked nine months of residing in London, I have gathered several observations in this relatively short span. London is a bustling metropolis that presents an extensive range of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students find themselves with an array of choices, as both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces virtually, showcasing available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to ensure proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can climb to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Moreover, the Oyster card options have helped in making university commutes more economical. London Overground and National Rail services also connect areas beyond the Underground system, with fares for inter-zone travel differing based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The costs of living in Central London, buoyed by its major attractions, tend to be high. Thankfully, having a friend in university allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is more challenging to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community replete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London stands out for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While searching for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.