Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I have amassed some valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only a wide range of housing options but also a plethora of communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their potential residences online, showcasing the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. The transport system in London, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traveling across zones straightforward. I aimed to keep travel expenses down since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than depend on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending coverage outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare model of each train company. The high costs of living in central London are driven by its major attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often hard to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are a vital part of its cultural diversity, providing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek out elements of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops for traditional clothing. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled within London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.