Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its rich communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring possible housing online, examining amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay near significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my transportation costs, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with oyster cards have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major landmarks, leading to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which considerably decreased our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to encounter in private housing.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of familiarity from their home nations within London. In West London, Southall hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional fashion boutiques. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scenes. Chinatown, located in the West End of London, stands as an energetic enclave with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a fraction of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London largely depend on your preferences and requirements. As you look for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.