Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a myriad of options at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals feature offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate the nearest public transportation links.
During my search for a place to stay, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates travel across various zones. I endeavored to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lessened commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, servicing areas outside of central London. Travel fares between zones fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we cohabited in a shared room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students look for a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End of London is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-driven neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its lodging options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.