Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant city, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, including their features and distance from public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to significant landmarks, communal hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zone one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation across the city and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day, I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the individual fare structure of train companies. The prominent attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar ages, a blend less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with countless Chinese eateries, boutiques, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community-rich areas.
The most suitable locations to reside in London are determined by your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.