Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have gathered various insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing selections but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options readily available. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of choices such as ensuite bathrooms and suite arrangements, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, showcasing the facilities available and their nearness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and commute across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. Key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tricky. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary according to your preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.