Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London pulsates with energy, not only due to its varied housing choices but also its vibrant communities. Students are presented with an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a range of alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, as well as house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, examine amenities, and locate the nearest public transportation links.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding public transport network comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transport can reach as much as £5.25 daily; therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced commuting costs for university journeys. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare schedule of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to fulfill in private housing.
Being situated near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, indulge in the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.