Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone living in London. Though this duration might appear brief, the experiences I’ve gained are invaluable. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing opportunities and lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of options to consider. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective residences online, complete with amenities and transport accessibility.
During my hunt for housing, my objective was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and movement across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips could cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London encompasses significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly cutting down on rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during busy exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their native countries. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These represent only a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales for residing in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When embarking on your search for a new residence in London, revel in the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the conveniences and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.