Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it may not be a lengthy time frame, I have acquired several perspectives. London is an energetic city, known not only for its variety of housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings, whereas international students can explore potential housing options online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which showcase their facilities and closeness to public transportation.
During my housing hunt, I intended to lease a room in Central London to be near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric areas, where the first two zones are the most central. London’s transport system, which comprises the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for smooth travel and navigation between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize commuting expenses, as traveling between zones can accumulate costs of up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. The high living costs in Central London are driven by its prominent attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to split a room and save considerably on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and around the same age, a blend that is harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex decision. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mix of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of connection to their homeland. Southall, located in West London, houses a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most desirable locations to reside in London are determined by individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.