Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago marked the completion of nine months since I relocated to London. While it might not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its array of housing choices but also because of its eclectic communities. Students have numerous selections right at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring prospective lodgings online, assessing facilities, and evaluating access to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I aspired to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones seamless. I, personally, aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone trips can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to stroll short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Notably, oyster card options have streamlined university commutes financially. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside the central district. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions result in elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to discover in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op coexist with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like grocery stores and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural makeup, presenting a rich mosaic of varied districts. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to stay in London are dependent on personal preferences and necessities. As you search for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.