Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this might not sound lengthy, I’ve gained some perspectives during this period. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its variety of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, including information about amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the central core. London features an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I intended to curtail travel expenses given that inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Prices for these services differ depending on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while at university helped us significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic minorities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to reside in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.