Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although nine months may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve gained several insights throughout this phase. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, including their amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London features an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I intended to lower travel expenses as commuting between zones can accumulate costs of up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, Oyster card options have rendered university commuting more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services span areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The central area’s main attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lessened rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination times.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most favorable areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.