Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained considerable experience. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied living options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available, such as student housing and private living spaces with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can arrange apartment viewings effortlessly, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse prospective housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sights, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric areas, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. The city features an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting could reach £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made journeys to university more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for the familiarity of their home country within London. Southall in West London has a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.