Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have acquired valuable insights. London is an energetic city, not just due to its range of living arrangements but also because of its varied communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student housing and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house share arrangements. Domestic students have little trouble scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living places online, examine the amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, communal spaces, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central locations. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse between zones. For personal reasons, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts major landmarks, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I came to university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less likely found in private housing.
Being situated near grocery stores was paramount for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity akin to their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking new housing in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.