Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this duration may not seem extensive, it has provided me with various insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it simple to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can reach £5.25 daily for journeys between zones, I decided to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Options with Oyster cards have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is less common in private accommodations.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are determined by personal preferences and needs. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.