Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently accomplished nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gathered some perspectives throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a wide variety of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, including student residences and private rentals featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, review available features, and evaluate the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, promoting easy movement and travel between zones. I preferred to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood for living is a daunting task. London’s diverse communities are pivotal to its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. While hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.