Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a multitude of housing choices and a wide range of communities. Students have numerous options available. Both student residences and private rentals offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, assess facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university trips more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each rail operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the bustling West End of London, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.