Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem like a significant duration, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely because of its varied housing options but also due to its communities. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both university housing and private residences provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, review amenities, and locate the closest public transit links.
During my search for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, stretching into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operating company. Central London hosts numerous attractions, resulting in high living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s harder to encounter in private housing.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students yearn for the comfort of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When hunting for a new abode in London, relish the variety and diversity of housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.