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, the experience has been invaluable. London is a dynamic city, presenting a variety of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students can select from an array of options, including student residences, private rentals, ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my housing search, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transport system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I opted to walk shorter distances to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day. The Oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central region. Ticket prices fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of the train operators. While Central London’s primary attractions increase living expenses, sharing accommodation with a friend allowed us to significantly cut down on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural richness, creating vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students seek a touch of home in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and thriving music scene. Chinatown in the West End is teeming with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence, relish the diversity and abundance of London’s housing offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.