Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, it marked nine months since my relocation to London. Although this may not seem like a long duration, there’s much I have absorbed. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its wide range of housing options but also by its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including the amenities available and their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel between the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. Nonetheless, options like the oyster card have made getting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network to areas outside Central London, with fares varying by distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living expenses around Central London stem from its key attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable selections are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps to save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries amidst London’s diversity. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.