Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I have gained several insights. London thrives as a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also because of its rich multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed for a room rental in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is sectioned into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel among the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 per day. To save money, I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have rendered commutes to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fare pricing for these services varies according to distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its main attractions. Thankfully, I was able to attend university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. The ethnic communities of London are central to its cultural fabric, creating a rich landscape of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home nation while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End, is a bustling area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
Identifying the best areas to dwell in London hinges on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.