Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem significant, I’ve picked up several insights. London is lively, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, ranging from student residences to private rentals, featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit infrastructure, encompassing the underground, buses, and railways, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zone travel. To cut down on transit expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have resulted in lower commuting expenses for university students. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London, with fare pricing differing according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. The living costs in Central London are high due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodging to connect with peers from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more difficult to locate in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities are central to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a spirited area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to stay in London are contingent on personal preferences and needs. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing selections, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.