Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained a substantial amount of experience. London is a dynamic metropolis, not solely for its wide range of housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have abundant options right at their fingertips. Both student lodgings and private rentals present a variety of selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse possible accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a residence, I set out to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse the city and journey between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university commute expenses. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes extend to regions beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance traveled and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in central London result in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, thereby greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age cohort, a mix that’s more difficult to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek to find connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. In the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is an animated locale with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.