Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing choices and a variety of communities. Students have plenty of options available, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and housemate arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in viewing their impending residences online, verifying facilities, and examining proximity to public transportation.
In my hunt for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport framework, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation around the city and inter-zonal travel. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I opted to walk shorter distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central region. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operating company. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and dynamic nature of this remarkable city.