Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering a plethora of housing choices and various communities. Students can find numerous options available right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to peruse prospective accommodations online, highlighting amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
Throughout my quest for a living space, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel among zones. To cut down on travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university trips. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services encompass regions beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a connection that might have been tougher to achieve through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for living can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, fostering diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity that reflects their home country in London. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End presents numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to inhabit in London hinge upon your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.