Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy time, I’ve acquired some perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its variety of housing choices but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is classified into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traversing and traveling between zones simple. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching zones that lie outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare structure of each railway company. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its significant attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to co-rent a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The finest locations in London to reside in depend on each individual’s preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, welcome the diversity and wealth of housing possibilities, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.