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 may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have a wide range of selections available to them, such as student residences and private lodgings, including options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, inspect available facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
While on the lookout for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major tourist spots, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six circular zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ depending on the distance and fare arrangements of each train company. Central London contains significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds within the same age range, a demographic harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich mix of varied areas. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is an animated enclave filled with various Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing opportunities, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.