Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. While this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London stands out as a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives at their fingertips. Both university residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, showcasing amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two serving as the core. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling among zones straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground grid, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The allure of Central London’s major sights adds to the high cost of living. Luckily, I had a university friend with whom I shared a room, leading to a considerable reduction in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
For me, being close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having easy access to basic stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students in London gravitate toward familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian demographic, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, boasts countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the abundance of housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.