Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month mark of residing in London. While it may not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired several revelations during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing possibilities and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options at their disposal, from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students might utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, inspect amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to lease a room in Central London to stay near prominent landmarks, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London, with fares varying based on distance and the pricing structures of train operators. The primary attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London vary depending on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new accommodations in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.