Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained several insights. London is a lively city, recognized not just for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students find a multitude of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing provide various options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can readily arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living spaces online, detailing amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place to live, I sought a room to rent in Central London to stay close to major sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation system consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London has major attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural diversity, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students wish to find the comfort of their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Centrally located in London’s West End, Chinatown is a colorful area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community hubs.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and necessities. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.