Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month threshold of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve accumulated some valuable insights during this period. London is an ever-evolving city, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options available, from student residences to private housing, which includes ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel among zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the fare structure specific to each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and of the same age, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on chores, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. The ethnic communities in London are a vital part of its cultural identity, creating diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarities from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, home to Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are determined by personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.