Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a significant duration, I have gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, famous not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Student housing and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential accommodations online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have enhanced affordability for university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is often more challenging to encounter in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities constitute a key element of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a connection to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London depend on personal interests and requirements. As you seek a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.