Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for the communities that inhabit the area. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing options online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transportation links.
In my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, stretching into zones outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its prominent attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lowered our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of home within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton boasts a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, relish the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.