Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t particularly long, I’ve gathered some valuable experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, rich not only in its varied housing options but also in its lively communities. Students have a myriad of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present an array of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse prospective accommodations online, along with the features they provide and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for suitable housing, I set out to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transportation system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensuring straightforward movement and travel among zones. I personally sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. Instead, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have drastically lowered university commuting costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London, being the site of major attractions, comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations as I hoped to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that’s more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is not an easy task. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their home country. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to stay in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.