Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may appear brief, I have gained considerable insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their potential accommodations online, evaluate the amenities provided, and locate the nearest public transport options.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to be near key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, streamlining travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university much more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to outskirts outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses major attractions, which results in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, leading to substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is tough. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich blend of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to inhabit in London rely on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.