Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve amassed some valuable perspectives in this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its extensive range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are offered an abundance of selections. Both student residences and private lodgings feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can explore potential homes online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, detailing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most centralized. London offers an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can run up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting from the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community enclaves.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new place in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.