Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London, I have gathered various insights during this period. London is an energetic city, presenting a multitude of housing selections and lively communities. There are ample alternatives available for students, with choices that stretch from student residences to private lodgings, encompassing ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in remotely exploring potential lodgings, amenities, and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, eases navigation throughout the city and inter-zone travel. To minimize transportation expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk brief distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube system, covering regions outside of central London, with fares differing based on distance and the pricing structures of train operators. The prominent attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, substantially lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s diverse and rich accommodation opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.