Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although my time here hasn’t been extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of experience during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its diverse housing selections but also for the varied communities that make it their home. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transportation.
In my search for a place to stay, my goal was to find a room situated in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses to a minimum since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made getting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to reach areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel vary according to distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The high living costs around Central London’s main attractions were notable. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age group, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities enrich its cultural fabric, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End features a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent only a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on individual interests and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.