Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period is not particularly long, I’ve gathered some experiences. London is a dynamic city, not merely because of its various housing options, but also for its eclectic communities. Students have an array of alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check out prospective homes online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed 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 concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers a great transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, thus aiding in effortless navigation and traveling between zones. I wished to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to stroll shorter stretches rather than utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare policies of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly alleviated rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more elusive in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to inhabit in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and enjoy the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.