Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing an extensive array of housing choices and a variety of communities. Students can select from numerous options, such as student residences to private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students have the convenience of arranging apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 per day for inter-zonal journeys, I preferred walking short distances over utilizing public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving areas beyond central London. Fares fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure employed by each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London elevate living expenses, but sharing a room with a companion allowed us to significantly reduce rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be tough. The city’s diverse communities enhance its cultural fabric, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for residing in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity and variety of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.