Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve learned a few things. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a variety of housing choices and lively communities. Students have numerous options available, including student residences and private housing such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can arrange apartment viewings with ease, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, explore facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day, so I preferred walking short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have helped make commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, resulting in a wide array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their homeland in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing opportunities, venture into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.