Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights during this timeframe. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an array of selections right at their fingertips. Both student accommodation 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, while international students can explore their prospective residences online via platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which include details about amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize commuting expenses as traveling between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to stroll shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London presents major landmarks, which leads to higher living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, resulting in considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students of varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was crucial for my needs. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home nation’s culture within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the wealth and diversity of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.