Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a wide range of housing types and lively communities. Students can select from various options, including student residences, private rentals, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and discover transportation links.
In my quest for housing, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six layered zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 each day. Instead of relying on a bus or tube for short distances, I opted to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travel more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for cross-zone travel differ based on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of various train companies. Living costs in Central London are elevated due to significant attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London are key to its cultural diversity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire a sense of familiarity with their native lands in London. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire stores. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the center of London’s West End, is home to countless Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to stay in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural areas, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.