Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I’ve drawn some conclusions during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned for its varied housing options as well as its bustling communities. Students have an abundance of selections accessible to them. Both student residences and private housing present an array of choices, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential accommodations online, including the amenities available and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and commute between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since traversing between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operating company. The high living expenses in Central London can be attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us substantially lower rent costs. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. A location near key stores such as grocery markets and pharmacies streamlines errands, which is especially beneficial during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses its own set of challenges. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a vivid array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their native countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population and features Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, right in the center of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s rich diversity and extensive accommodation options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.