Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While nine months may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained a wealth of experience during this duration. London is an energetic metropolis, not just because of its varied housing options but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private lodgings offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into areas outside central London, with prices differing based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred communal student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, creating a rich mosaic of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their home culture. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area packed with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take advantage of the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.