Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have acquired several valuable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing options but also its multicultural communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present various options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, discover amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to main attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal travel costs can soar to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London, home to major attractions, comes with elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to a significant reduction in rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies shortens the time spent on errands, which is especially beneficial during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, contributing to a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London vary based on personal interests and preferences. When searching for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.