Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a long duration, I’ve gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city, celebrated not just for its varied housing selections but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, complete with amenities and distance to public transport.
While seeking a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fare can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of using a bus or tube, I preferred walking shorter distances. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary based on distance and the fare framework of each rail company. Central London offers significant attractions, contributing to high living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and a similar age group, a mix more difficult to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, offering a vivid mix of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and bustling music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, take in the diversity and wealth of the city’s housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.