Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not too long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing options and bustling communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them, encompassing student residences and private housing with alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, inspect facilities, and gauge their distance to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I intended to find a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can skyrocket to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time for running errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.