Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Even though it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its energetic communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals provide various options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and assess their distances from public transport.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social activities, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the most central being zones one and two. London boasts a remarkable transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, causing high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly beneficial during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s diverse ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are contingent upon your interests and requirements. When embarking on the quest for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.