Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gained considerable insights during this period. The city is dynamic and vibrant, providing a wide range of housing options and active communities. Students have various alternatives, including student residences and private living arrangements, with choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to check out potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to stay near key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for effortless travel and transition between zones. To curb commuting expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its numerous attractions. Luckily, I shared accommodations with a friend at university, which significantly lowered the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination often harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.