Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its varied housing alternatives but also for its lively communities. Students have an array of options available to them, with both student accommodations and private rentals providing choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily book apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, along with details on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I set out to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system to outer zones, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The popularity of central London’s key attractions contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, thus greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as they allowed me to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and a similar age group, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and drugstores streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity from their home nation in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. At the core of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling place filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural districts, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.