Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have absorbed a considerable amount during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing a plethora of housing options and varied communities. Students have numerous choices available to them, with both student residences and private accommodations offering amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential living spaces online, review available features, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I preferred to limit transportation expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day, so I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, options for oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts significant attractions, which contributes to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a connection that would have been more difficult to forge in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities contribute greatly to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity within London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with many Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing options, investigate cultural districts, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.