Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it might appear brief, I have gained substantial insights throughout this duration. London is an energetic city, not only because of its various housing options but also due to its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with a wide array of selections. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while international learners can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodations, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to major 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 exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares could reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London elevate living costs. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errand runs, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich collection of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections with their home cultures while in London. Southall, in West London, boasts a large South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When searching for new housing in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.