Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not appear as an extensive duration, I’ve gained some perspectives during this time. London is an energetic city, not only regarding its range of housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio units, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore future housing online, review available amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds of similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private settings.
Living near grocery stores was a personal emphasis. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London form a vital part of its cultural landscape, creating a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. 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 renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely some instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, immerse yourself in cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.