Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it’s not a lengthy duration, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both university housing and private rentals provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation infrastructure, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I wished to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel might cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each operating train company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, leading to significant rent reductions. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of the same age group, a combination that is more difficult to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.