Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its varied housing possibilities but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices at their fingertips. Student residences and private lodgings provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy mobility and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail operations extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the core of London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. Central London features prominent tourist attractions, which leads to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a companion, and we made the decision to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student residences, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.