Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, I have gained some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its plethora of housing choices but also by its varied communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide multiple alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in exploring potential lodgings online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I specifically sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation network is outstanding, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which make inter-zone travel and navigation straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones could amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. Central London’s significant attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, vastly cutting down on rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, with the hope of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s tougher to find in private accommodations.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave boasting many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diverse accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.