Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have acquired several insights. London is an energetic metropolis, known not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have abundant choices available to them. Both university housing and private rentals offer numerous alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students based in the UK can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential living spaces online, evaluating amenities, and considering access to public transport.
During my housing search, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone travel could cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transit. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes vary according to distance and each rail company’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from different backgrounds and of a similar age, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a formidable task. The diverse ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural richness, presenting a colorful mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home culture. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.