Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained several insights along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their forthcoming housing options online, evaluate the available amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to find a room to rent in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. It features an impressive transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can total up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London boasts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended the university with a companion, and we decided to share a room, which helped us save notably on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a configuration less attainable through private rentals.
Being in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common retail chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home culture while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To seek a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.