Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I have gathered various insights. London is a dynamic city, providing a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both dormitory living and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, along with listed amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key sites, entertainment areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and rail services, allows for easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel costs, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys less costly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ based on distance and the pricing framework of each train operator. The significant attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly minimizing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland can be found. Easy access to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural landscape, providing a colorful array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End boasts an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.