Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting an extensive selection of housing options and dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives right at their doorstep, ranging from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while international students can rely on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and gauge the accessibility of public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit costs can amount to £5.25 daily, opting to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system to outer zones, with fares varying according to distance and train company pricing structures. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to split a room, which greatly lessened our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music landscape. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.