Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve accumulated some observations throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing choices but also by its varied communities. Students have various options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, highlighting available facilities and nearness to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six surrounding zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate between zones. Personally, I wanted to lower my travel costs, considering inter-zonal trips could amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short routes instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each company. The major attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lessened our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no small feat. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, offering a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity from their home country within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the variety and depth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.