Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy time frame, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is a dynamic city, offering not only a variety of housing options but also lively communities. Students are presented with plenty of choices. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, review facilities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
During my apartment hunt, I aimed to lease a room in Central London, keeping close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers a superb public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commuting more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominence of central London’s attractions drives up living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving during errands, especially amidst exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek out familiar elements from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, provides numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new accommodations in London, appreciate the variety and richness of available options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.