Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As of late, I have completed nine months residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have acquired several insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also its animated communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide multiple options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local learners can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, inclusive of amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and inter-zone travel. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can be as high as £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in which to reside is a complex decision. The ethnic communities within London play a vital role in its cultural identity, creating a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their homeland. Southall in West London features a large South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Situated in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and exuberance of this extraordinary city.