Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may appear brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, from student accommodations to private residences, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to view potential housing options online, along with their features and closeness to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to find a room in Central London to remain near major sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the first and second zones being the most central. London offers a superb public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between different zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube, I chose to walk short distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, serving zones outside of central London, with fares changing according to distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The high living costs associated with Central London’s major attractions are evident. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that can be harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was important for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cheaper alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse areas. Many international students look for connections to their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.