Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residence in London. Although it might not seem like much time, I have gained several perspectives throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review facilities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones convenient. I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can incur expenses of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the underground. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys more financially manageable. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching outlying zones from central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, greatly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often less accessible in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential places like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural variety, offering a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.