Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem like an extensive period, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, featuring a plethora of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer facilities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for effortless navigation and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which notably diminished our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural richness, presenting a beautiful array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in this vibrant city, take advantage of the array of accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and energy of this extraordinary place.