Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I commemorated my nine-month journey in London. Though nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insight during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices available right at hand. Both student residences and private rentals present an array of options, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the chance to explore their prospective accommodations online, featuring amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I sought a room to rent in Central London to ensure proximity to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates movement and travel across zones. My objective was to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or tubes. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on travel distance and the fare policies of various train companies. Central London is packed with prominent attractions, leading to high living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being located near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging task. The ethnic communities in London are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is renowned for its substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining, grocery options, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown serves as a lively quarter filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.