Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I have gathered a wealth of experiences. London is a dynamic city, known not only for its varied housing options but also its bustling communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university trips more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on route length and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs near central London’s main attractions are notable. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar ages, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities are key to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a touch of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a lively area packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.