Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
In recent months, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I’ve gained various insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its multitude of accommodation choices but also its rich array of communities. Students have an extensive selection available to them. Both student housing and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
While searching for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living costs around Central London’s major sights are relatively high. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a combination that is less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Some prevalent supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during the examination period.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant range of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.