Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While this time span may seem brief, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing choices but also by its lively communities. Students have a wide range of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and communal living arrangements. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, complete with details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central areas. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes commuting and traveling between zones seamless. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of individual train operators. The presence of major attractions in Central London leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been harder to achieve through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a vibrant mix of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling district filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing opportunities, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.