Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its array of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students enjoy a multitude of selections. Both student housing and private rentals offer alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, assess amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of lodging, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near prominent landmarks, social gathering spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these networks differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The many major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly brought down our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural identity, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for traces of their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops selling traditional attire. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on individual interests and preferences. When on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.