Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this duration isn’t extensive, the experiences I’ve had so far have been enlightening. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not just by its varied housing options, but also its lively communities. Students are presented with a plethora of alternatives. Both student accommodations and private housing provide a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, whereas websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review the features, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
During my hunt for a residence, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes commuting and traveling between zones simple. I sought to minimize my travel expenses since moving between zones can 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 cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the underground network, spreading into zones outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services are contingent on the distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are a result of its major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that’s often difficult to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was crucial for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a small selection of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London largely depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing offerings, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.