Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained significant insights. London is lively and provides a range of housing options and communities. Students can choose from various possibilities, including student housing and private residences, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, assess amenities, and identify public transport connections.
During my search for a place, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two classified as central. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can incur high costs, thus I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have made university travel more economical. London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching broader areas. Fares differ based on distance and train company pricing systems. The cost of living in Central London is high due to its attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, reducing rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students of diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which proves more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic enclaves are key to its cultural fabric, showcasing various neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a home, take advantage of London’s varied housing choices, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the city’s convenience and vibrancy.