Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve acquired some understanding. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a wide array of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options, including student residences and private lodgings with alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s efficient transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 every day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, appreciate the diversity and abundance of London’s housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.