Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although that may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, appealing not only for its diverse housing choices but also for its rich amalgamation of communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both shared student residences and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, public and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
During my housing quest, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the most central areas being zones one and two. London’s transit network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for simple navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have decreased the costs of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. The fares for these services depend on distance and the pricing policy of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to split a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored inter-collegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to obtain in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was paramount for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is teeming with countless Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a selection of community hubs.
The best locales for living in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. In your quest for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, immerse yourself in cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.