Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired valuable insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, showcasing a wide range of housing choices and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodging online, including features and access to public transportation.
In my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. London enjoys an outstanding public transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel among zones. To mitigate travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services depend on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London also play a role in elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging to find in private dwellings.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having immediate access to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough choice. London’s diverse communities form a crucial part of its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a touch of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are only a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.