Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not feel extensive, I have acquired several insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a plethora of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available, ranging from student housing to private rentals, including options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international scholars can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, examine available amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London features a commendable transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for smooth navigation and transit between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, opting to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London, with prices varying according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly decreasing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. A number of international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music environment. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a selection of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.