Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis that provides a diverse range of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, including amenities and access to public transportation.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private residences.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood comes with its difficulties. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural essence, presenting a vivid array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and pulsing music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, showcases countless Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for your new home in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.