Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its vast selection of housing alternatives but also because of its varied communities. Students possess a wide range of options at their disposal. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, check available features, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In pursuit of a place to stay, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can scale up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, drastically reducing rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for reflections of their home countries within London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End presents numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When you’re on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.