Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. While it may not sound lengthy, I have gained a fair amount of insight. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively communities. Students have numerous options available, encompassing student residences and private accommodations with alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in browsing potential lodgings online, checking amenities, and evaluating distance to public transport.
During my housing search, I targeted renting a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and inter-zone travel straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, which can soar up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have rendered university commuting more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London, home to key attractions, incurs high living costs. Thankfully, I started university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered rent expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Living in proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural essence, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.