Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained some insights during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized by its variety of housing options as well as its diverse communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, review the facilities, and identify the nearest public transport options.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to lease in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel between zones seamless. I aimed to minimize my commuting expenses since traveling between zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced costs for university commutes. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on the distance and pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major landmarks, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I was enrolled in university alongside a friend, leading us to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I preferred staying in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting the right neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students in London look for connections to their homeland. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, offering a range of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Nestled in the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The most suitable locales for living in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness present in its housing choices, delve into the cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.