Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked the completion of nine months residing in London. Although nine months may not appear to be a long time, I’ve accumulated a variety of experiences during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, showcasing not only a range of housing options but also its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer a variety of alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to virtually check out their potential homes, the amenities on offer, and how close they are to public transportation.
In my hunt for accommodation, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to be near major sights, social spaces, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones seamless. Personally, I sought to keep travel costs down, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance covered and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London houses many key attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that would have been challenging to find in private rentals.
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was vital. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on tasks, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural identity, creating a rich mosaic of different districts. Numerous international students look for a sense of connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a substantial South Asian population with an array of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, stands out as a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.