Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not a lengthy time, I’ve gathered some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a wide range of housing options and dynamic communities. There are many alternatives available for students. Student residences and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including facilities and distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered the rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing selections, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.