Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t particularly long, I’ve acquired a fair amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic city, celebrated for its varied housing choices and energetic communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private lodgings provide different possibilities, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential accommodations online, examining facilities, and discovering nearby public transport links.
During my quest for a living space, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily, so I opted for walking short distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. The travel fares between zones on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to the city’s major attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age, which would have been more challenging in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence, embrace London’s diverse housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.