Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only in its array of housing options but also in its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, complete with information on amenities and distance to public transport.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to lower my travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time during errands, especially when exams are approaching.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown situated in the heart of London’s West End provides a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural exhibitions. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are guided by your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.