Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this period might seem short, I’ve gathered a few reflections. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a myriad of housing choices and dynamic neighborhoods. Students are afforded a vast selection of options. Both university accommodations and private rentals come with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private lodgings, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to browse potential housing online, showcasing amenities and transit accessibility.
During my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, nightlife, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart. London’s robust transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, offers easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own difficulties. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, offering a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students seek to find a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.