Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently completed nine months in London, I’ve accumulated a few observations. This vibrant city is bustling, not only due to its varied housing options but also its dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student housing and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential rentals online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is known for its sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional textile boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples represent just a fraction of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.