Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residence in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone commuting can amount to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for these services depend on distance and the fare structures of various train companies. The high living costs in central London stem from its notable attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, which would have been more challenging with private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural mosaic, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their native countries in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, showcases an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best locations to inhabit in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.