Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is an energetic city, characterized not just by its varied housing options, but also by its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student residences and private lodgings present a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living spaces online, complete with amenities and public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation system is superb, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify getting around the city and moving between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major attractions, leading to higher living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, so we resolved to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is harder to find in private accommodations.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community, with abundant Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural niches, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.