Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months of residing in London, I acknowledge that while this may not be a lengthy period, it has offered me valuable experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its plethora of housing choices but also by its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private accommodations feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the convenience of arranging apartment tours, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom support international students in exploring prospective homes online, showcasing both amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London is equipped with a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, covering regions outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London, being home to significant attractions, results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a vibrant array of various neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich areas.
The optimal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and needs. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of available accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.