Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gathered various perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, not solely for its diverse housing selections but also for the various communities that inhabit it. Students are presented with countless options. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including their amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones comprising the most central areas. London’s transport infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aids in seamless navigation and travel across zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can reach £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made university transit more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions but comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering the rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End boasts a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.