Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While that duration might appear brief, the learning has been substantial. London is a dynamic metropolis, famed not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Home students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review available features, and gauge proximity to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London in order to stay close to main attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth navigation and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as traveling between zones could amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with Oyster cards have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London, with fare rates varying according to distance and the train company’s pricing models. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its significant attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend during university helped us considerably lower rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a taste of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and necessities. When looking for your next home, cherish the diversity and vibrancy of London’s housing selections, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.