Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have garnered invaluable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, known not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students find themselves with numerous options right at their fingertips. Both academic housing and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared accommodations, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, including amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London for its proximity to key attractions, entertainment spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London boasts an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel across various zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university much more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London’s numerous attractions result in elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with diverse peers of similar ages, a connection that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam crunch times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic enclaves are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a taste of home in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton, positioned in South London, is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diverse and rich housing selections, dive into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary metropolis.