Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy timeframe, I’ve acquired some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a variety of lodging options and dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices available to them. Options include student residences, private housing, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse possible accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travels fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodations, significantly lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily tasks, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural structure, offering a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural areas, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city has to offer.