Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis that presents a multitude of housing options and an array of communities. Students have an abundance of choices, ranging from student accommodations to private rentals, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse available housing online, verify amenities, and discover public transport connections.
During my housing search, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transportation infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement across and within zones. To reduce travel expenses, I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground, with ticket prices varying depending on distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The high living costs in Central London are offset somewhat by sharing a room with a friend, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with learners from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a challenging endeavor with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps conserve time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its own challenges. The city’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural diversity, creating rich neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residence in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing selections, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.