Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residence in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve acquired considerable knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide range of living arrangements but also because of its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of options. Student housing and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can schedule apartment viewings with ease, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I looked to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s superb transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, allows for simple navigation and travel across zones. To reduce travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university less costly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ according to distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by its prominent attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has considerably lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These illustrate only a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.