Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a variety of lodging choices and multicultural neighborhoods. Students can select from numerous options. Both student residences and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, evaluate facilities, and gauge distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables smooth movement and inter-zone travel. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Options for Oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of individual train companies. The presence of significant attractions in Central London leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to meet individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups—an amalgamation that is trickier to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s diverse communities enrich its cultural landscape, presenting a multitude of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries while living in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.