Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the completion of nine months residing in London. Even though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its vast array of housing options but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine prospective housing online, assess amenities, and check their distance from public transportation.
While looking for a residence, I preferred a room in Central London to be in close proximity to key attractions, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and movement between zones. Personally, I endeavored to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. With numerous major attractions, living costs in Central London are elevated. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite challenging. The various ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the core of London’s West End, Chinatown stands as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.