Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this duration may not be significant, I’ve accumulated some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic city, not solely due to its varied housing selections but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both university-affiliated lodging and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, which detail amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables fluid movement and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for traveling between zones, I opted for walking shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground framework, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of each train company. The high living expenses in Central London are balanced by its key attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share an apartment, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in privately rented places.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian presence with its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. In the core of London’s West End, Chinatown showcases a multitude of Chinese diners, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a fraction of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and preferences. While on the hunt for a new home, appreciate the diversity and richness of London’s housing possibilities, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.