Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of living in London. Although it may seem brief, I’ve gained various experiences. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and lively communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both university accommodation and private rentals feature amenities 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 help international students to view potential housing online, check available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
While looking for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The presence of major attractions in Central London leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be challenging. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, contributing to a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a connection to their home culture. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean culture and thriving music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the richness and diversity of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.