Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, it marked the conclusion of nine months since my relocation to London. Although nine months may not seem like a considerable amount of time, I’ve gained significant insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. There are numerous choices available right outside the door for students. Both student residences and private lodgings provide selections such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and identify the nearest public transport options.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to 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 boasts a superb transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting may cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend coverage to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London is home to prominent attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I was enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for my living arrangement. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural tapestry, providing a vibrant assortment of diverse neighborhoods. The majority of international students in London seek the comforts of their home nations. Southall, in West London, boasts a large South Asian community complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famed 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 events. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.