Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month residency in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student housing and private rentals encompass diverse offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and sole occupancy rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, evaluate amenities, and review proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London for easy access to major attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the closest to the center. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate across zones. Personally, I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made university journeys more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel with these services depend on distance and the pricing structures of different train operators. The significant attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, sharing accommodation with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more elusive in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on tasks, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, offers a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal locations for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish in the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.