Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices conveniently available. Both student accommodations and private housing present a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check out potential housing online, review amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
While searching for a residence, my priority was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city sprawls across six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the heart of it all. London boasts an outstanding public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zone trips can amount to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The costs of living are elevated near Central London’s major attractions. Luckily, since I was attending university with a friend, we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time during errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a richly diverse array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling atmosphere filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.