Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy period, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, providing an array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students can select from a wide range of options, including student residences and private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine prospective accommodations online, review available facilities, and gauge distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts an excellent transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. To cut down on travel costs, which could reach £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering more expansive regions outside central London. Inter-zone travel prices differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train operating company. Living in Central London is expensive because of its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and age groups, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The location of necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is not easy. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, offering a diverse range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community 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 activities. These are merely a few instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.