Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residency in London. Although this might not seem like a significant duration, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
As I searched for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize my commuting costs as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 a day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, accessing areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The numerous attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to cohabit, providing significant savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds, a blend less common in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, especially in exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.