Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although not a lengthy time, I have gathered some perspectives. London is a vibrant city, providing a variety of housing options and a mix of communities. Students have many alternatives available, including student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings, while online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations from afar, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling across zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, hence I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, topping up an oyster card has rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside the heart of London, with ticket prices differing depending on distance and train operators’ fare structures. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, which considerably lowered rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend harder to encounter in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are core to its cultural richness, contributing a vibrant mosaic of areas. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.