Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Though this timeframe is relatively brief, I have acquired some valuable perspectives throughout this journey. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings present numerous options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, ensuring close proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric circles, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can set you back as much as £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services serve areas beyond the Underground coverage, reaching zones outside of central London. The fare for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuates based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London presents major attractions, which drives up living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is tougher to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are central to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of diverse districts. Many international students in London desire a sense of connection to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End offers a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When exploring a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its housing offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.