Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I’ve gained various perspectives. London is an energetic city, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available, with both student residences and private lodgings offering features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
As I looked for my living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation infrastructure, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigation and travel between zones simple. To cut down on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services traverse beyond the Underground system, reaching areas situated outside central London, with fares fluctuating depending on distance and the fare structures of train companies. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was going to university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend that’s more challenging to discover in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was imperative for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.