Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not be a long time, I’ve gathered some experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a vast selection of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals boast amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review available features, and gauge closeness to public transport.
During my accommodation hunt, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to major tourist spots, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two comprising the most central areas. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies getting around and traveling between zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances over taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have eased commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas outside the Underground’s reach. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing systems of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend allowed us to split a room, which significantly lowered rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with multiple Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are determined by personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing alternatives, dive into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this exceptional city.