Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired various observations throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals provide features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, alongside the amenities provided and the distance to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, with the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel between zones straightforward. I wanted to minimize my travel expenses, as traveling between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Tickets for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The cost of living in Central London can be steep due to its key attractions. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on necessary tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a cornerstone of its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are based on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence, welcome the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.