Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a few observations. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a variety of housing choices and dynamic neighborhoods. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including the amenities and distance to public transport links.
In my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. London features an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures set by various train operating companies. The major attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to cohabit, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to meet fellow students from a range of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.