Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only for its immense range of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students have many alternatives right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check out their future living arrangements online, including the amenities available and access to public transport.
During my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to traverse and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted for walking short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options with an oyster card have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to areas outside central London. Fares for multi-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The significant tourist attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a scenario less common in private properties.
For me, being close to grocery outlets was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home country’s culture. Southall in West London has a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community hubs.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.