Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residency in London. Though it might appear brief, I’ve gathered valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and assorted communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can promptly organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to secure a room in Central London for easy access to key landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. London boasts a robust transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement between zones straightforward. I aimed to cut travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of individual train operators. The high living expenses associated with Central London’s main attractions are a consideration. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, substantially reducing our rent. I preferred collegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence poses a challenge. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek aspects of their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community and features Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, offers a bustling hub with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of culturally rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. While searching for a new place in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.