Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe isn’t extensive, I’ve picked up some valuable observations along the way. London is a dynamic city, presenting a multitude of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students are offered an array of options. Both student residences and private rentals include features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, along with details about amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for buses or the tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, expanding into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary depending on the distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London’s prime attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred university accommodations over private rentals, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds, something that would have been trickier through private housing.
Living close to supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while budget-friendly options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies can save valuable time, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities are a core part of its cultural landscape, crafting a vibrant mix of diverse areas. A significant number of international students search for a taste of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.