Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its assorted housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both university housing and private rentals provide varieties such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange property viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, detailing amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, promoting seamless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground system, accessing areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Major landmarks in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a companion, and we decided to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to locate in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies optimizes time for errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, showcasing a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a selection of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal neighborhoods in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.