Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals provide multiple options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, highlighting amenities and transport links.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize transit expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare policies of individual train operators. The high living costs in Central London stem from its attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly decreased our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and comparable age groups, a blend more difficult to discover in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time during errands, especially in busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite a task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students yearn for the comfort of their home country’s familiarity within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.