Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a multitude of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near major landmarks, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university much more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central hub. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London attracts numerous tourists, leading to increased living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse locales. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the vibrant West End of London is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.