Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this may not seem like an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to peruse potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
While on the hunt for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to cut down on travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can total up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that’s tougher to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students in London seek the comforts of home. Southall, in West London, features a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.