Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered various perspectives. London is a dynamic city, providing an extensive selection of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available, including student residences and private lodgings with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two considered the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward movement and commuting between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel may cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than use public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The central area’s prominent attractions lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend during our university journey helped us significantly reduce rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, situations less common in private residences.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own difficulties. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, investigate cultural pockets, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.