Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is an exciting city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential accommodations online, assessing amenities, and identifying available public transport connections.
As I searched for a place to call home, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be near prominent sites, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as crossing zones can result in daily costs of up to £5.25. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, the options associated with an oyster card have rendered university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail routes extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the core of London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and specific pricing structures of each train operating company. Central London hosts major tourist attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, thereby significantly reducing our rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, as I anticipated meeting individuals from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that is harder to achieve in private properties.
Being close to grocery shops was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London hosts a sizeable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are determined by your personal interests and necessities. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.