Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months may not appear lengthy, I have gained several insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its wide range of housing choices but also due to its varied communities. Students have countless options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, including the amenities available and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes moving around and traveling between zones seamless. I aimed to lower travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting choice. London’s multicultural communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. 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 population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation alternatives, explore cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.