Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have accumulated several observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only because of its vast selection of housing alternatives but also due to its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, featuring details about amenities and access to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social environments, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigation and inter-zone travel. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and individual train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute significantly to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I preferred student accommodations that allowed interaction with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to locate in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relishing the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.