Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of my stay in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, I’ve gathered valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its plethora of housing choices but also by its varied communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, including the facilities available and closeness to public transportation.
While searching for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London features an outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a diverse range of neighbourhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples illustrate just a few of the community-focused neighbourhoods.
The best areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for your next residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.