Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear significant, I’ve garnered several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous selections right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their upcoming accommodations online, check amenities, and locate the nearest public transport links.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of taking a bus or tube, I preferred walking short distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London drive living expenses higher. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students of diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections with their home country. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and needs. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.