Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. It might not appear lengthy, but during this period, I’ve gathered some valuable observations. London is a bustling metropolis, noted not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private rentals provide various types of accommodations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, assess amenities, and find accessible public transport options nearby.
In my quest for housing, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social gathering spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal transportation can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made traveling to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes depend on the distance and the pricing framework of each train company. Central London features significant attractions, resulting in high living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and within the same age range, a combination that is often harder to discover in private housing.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cost-effective choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comforts of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of distinct community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary according to your preferences and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.