Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained substantial knowledge in that period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its rich array of communities. Students have an abundance of selections available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review the available facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I targeted renting a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with zones one and two being at the core. London features a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living expenses around Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred student accommodations managed by institutions to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community hotspots.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.