Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be an extensive duration, I have gained valuable experiences throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, known not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its myriad of communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each rail company. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, substantially reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, seeking connections with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural ambiance, providing a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. A considerable number of international students look for familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and its extensive accommodation choices, explore its cultural niches, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.