Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period might not appear extensive, I’ve accumulated some valuable observations along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a diverse array of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, ranging from student residences to private living arrangements, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to find prospective accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my housing search, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it effortless to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London add to the elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, substantially lowering rental costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, offering a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, in West London, features a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.