Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve gathered a few observations. London is an energetic metropolis with a plethora of housing possibilities and dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and housemates. Local students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, including their amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to lower commuting expenses, as travel between zones can total up to £5.25 daily, opting to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. However, the oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare framework. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to split a room, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-priced alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural fabric, showcasing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few of the community-centered neighborhoods.
The top places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s varied housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.