Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, it has been quite enlightening. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingers. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared accommodations, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their upcoming homes online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to principal attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transit system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys might reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university rides more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the heart of London. Fares for traveling between zones vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which led to substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to encounter in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, showcasing a vibrant mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a sense of belonging to their native culture while in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is home to countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and abundance of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.