Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of living in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained valuable observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing options and lively neighborhoods. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both university-provided housing and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently book apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, showcasing facilities and access to public transportation.
During my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases movement and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services venture beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The status of Central London’s major attractions leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university has greatly alleviated our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The close proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural richness, offering a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek touches of familiarity reminiscent of their home nations while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community with a plethora of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the very heart of London’s West End is brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-driven neighborhoods.
The perfect areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. In your search for a new home in London, embrace the cultural richness and diversity of its housing options, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.