Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I have gleaned several observations during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing alternatives but also its dynamic communities. Students find numerous choices available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of options 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 future lodgings online, including amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating navigation and travel among zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each rail operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, causing a significant reduction in rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which is often harder to find in private housing.
Being close to supermarkets was vital for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural tapestry, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and rich music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.