Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I reached the milestone of nine months in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is vibrant, not only due to its myriad housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both university accommodation and private housing feature an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential housing online, reviewing amenities, and evaluating access to public transport.
During my search for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, positioning myself close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being at the center. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and journeying between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can run up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these trains fluctuate based on distance and each rail company’s pricing scheme. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s often 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, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on shopping, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural hubs, and appreciate the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.