Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem long, I’ve collected valuable observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city with an abundance of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options readily available, with both student residences and private rentals offering amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private sleeping arrangements, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential rentals online, alongside their features and distance from public transportation.
During my hunt for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows seamless navigation and travel between zones. To reduce travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for trips across zones, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travelling to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to its elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and ages, which is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural precincts, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.