Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gathered a wealth of experience. London is an energetic metropolis, not just due to its varied housing alternatives but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have numerous choices available. Both student accommodation and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore potential lodgings online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
During my hunt for a place, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach £5.25 daily. To save on costs, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have decreased commuting costs for university. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services access regions beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London features prominent sights, leading to higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies cuts down on errand time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Most international students look for a sense of connection to their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.