Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student accommodations and private housing feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing amenities and proximity to public transport.
While searching for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London has a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground, serving regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure for each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups— a mix that is tougher to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing possibilities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.