Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it’s a brief period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, offering a variety of living arrangements and lively neighborhoods. Students have numerous options at their disposal, as both student residences and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my search for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transport network, including the tube, buses, and trains, allows for easy movement and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, connecting to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent expenses. I preferred university-affiliated accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London align with personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.