Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I’ve acquired a substantial amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its plethora of housing alternatives but also for its eclectic communities. Students are offered a multitude of choices. Both student residence and private living arrangements present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing the available amenities and the closeness to public transport.
During my house-hunting, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on public transportation. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on distance and the fare scheme of each train operator. The high living costs linked to Central London’s significant attractions are considerable. Luckily, I entered university alongside a friend, and we decided to split a room, which resulted in substantial rent savings. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s ethnically diverse communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections with their homeland in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.