Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained valuable insights throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only because of its wide-ranging accommodation choices but also due to its diverse communities. Students have numerous options right at their doorsteps. Both student housing and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have an easy time scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their prospective homes online, showcasing the facilities available and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought a room to rent in Central London for ease of access to significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I personally aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to notable attractions, so living expenses can be quite steep. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share accommodation, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find through private rentals.
For me, proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are central to its cultural essence, weaving together a rich tapestry of diverse areas. Many international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home nations within this city. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Nestled in the heart of the West End, Chinatown offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are influenced by your personal interests and requirements. To discover your new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and experience the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.