Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. It may seem brief, but I’ve gathered several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing choices and lively communities. Students have multiple options available, which include student residences and private lodgings with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and sole occupancy rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students have the opportunity to use websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, examine facilities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my endeavor to find accommodation, I targeted a room for rent in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to move around and travel between zones. To save on travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, catering to regions outside central London. The fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The major attractions in Central London add to the high living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, leading to a significant reduction in rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on daily tasks, especially during the exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases a wealth of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the variety and depth of housing options, discover cultural zones, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.