Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this time frame may seem brief, I have gathered some observations throughout my stay. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its array of housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Student accommodations alongside private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential rentals online, evaluate available facilities, and consider their distance from public transport.
During my housing hunt, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of London. Its transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enables smooth movement and travel among the zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since travelling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll over short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside Central London. Prices for these services depend on the distance traveled and the fare policy of each train provider. The major sights in Central London contribute to elevated living prices. Thankfully, being at university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which substantially lowered rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix less common in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural identity, creating a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of their home country. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, with numerous Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area with plenty of Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.