Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, it marked nine months since I relocated to London. Although it may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained extensive knowledge during this time. London is an energetic city, not just with its varied housing choices but also through its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide numerous choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and identify nearby public transport connections.
In my quest to find a residence, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground coverage, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often more challenging to find in private residences.
For me, residing near grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities form a vital component of its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are determined by personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.