Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is a dynamic city, not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its energetic communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both student housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, check amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the 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 central London. Fares for these routes fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is the site of many significant attractions, resulting in high living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to a substantial decrease in rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek solace in familiar environments in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian populace with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation options, explore cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.