Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered various observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, featuring an extensive selection of housing alternatives and a mix of communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options, such as student residences and private lodgings that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential housing online, along with information regarding amenities and public transportation access.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London provides an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have increased affordability for university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train provider. Major attractions in Central London influence the high cost of living. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and animated music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community neighborhoods available.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.