Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gathered some understanding during my time here. London is an energetic metropolis, well-known not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living places online, verify amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six surrounding zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation framework, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward movement and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since moving between zones can reach as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made trips to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s cultural communities are vital to its societal tapestry, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a sense of their homeland in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a prominent South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops for traditional attire. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary according to personal preferences and necessities. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.