Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is not a lengthy time, I have gathered various perspectives. London is an energetic city, presenting a broad range of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have plenty of options available, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while international students can investigate potential accommodations online via platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, evaluating amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which enables straightforward travel and movement across zones. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses, since inter-zonal transit can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach outside the Underground system, covering regions beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel vary depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-based neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.