Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve gained valuable insights during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing selections but also for its energetic communities. Students have an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals provide a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, review the available amenities, and assess their closeness to public transportation.
As I sought a rental in Central London, my goal was to be near significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the closest to the center. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or the tube. Nonetheless, Oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Also, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ according to distance and the fare regulations of individual train operators. While Central London hosts significant attractions leading to high living expenses, I was fortunate to attend university with a friend. We decided to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to encounter students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to settle in can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of their home country amidst the city. Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizable South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.