Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month residency in London. Although it might not appear significant, I have gleaned valuable experiences during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and dynamic neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options available to them, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment showings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, check features, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I set out to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric territorial zones, with the first two zones being the core. London features an outstanding transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize transport expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Still, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these routes fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s trickier to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the centre of London’s West End is a vibrant area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.