Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained considerable insights. London buzzes with life, providing an abundance of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have diverse selections available, including student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while international students can leverage websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling seamless mobility throughout the zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. Instead of taking the bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas out of central London. The fares for these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of individual train operators. Central London’s key attractions lead to increased living expenses. Fortunately, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural tapestry, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their countries of origin while in London. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, filled with Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a buzzing district featuring plenty of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.