Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have absorbed a considerable amount. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its plethora of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with abundant selections. Both student residences and private rentals provide various types, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is split into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement around the city and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services operate beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for cross-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The living costs near Central London’s prominent attractions are elevated. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and of similar age, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to basic stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the familiarity of their home cultures in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling hub packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city offers.