Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t an extensive period, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is dynamic, not just for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both university housing and private accommodations feature options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider their distance from public transit.
In my quest for a place to live, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts an admirable transport system that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone transit can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating interaction with students from various backgrounds and the same age range, a mix that is more difficult to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling region filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and variety within its accommodation selections, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city offers.