Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing options but also by the diverse populations residing here. Students have numerous alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private residences supply a range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, including features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to cut travel expenses since crossing zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances rather than hopping on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that are outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, wishing to connect with peers of diverse backgrounds and similar ages—a mix that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek some semblance of familiarity with their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and its dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub teeming with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The finest regions to live in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When embarking on the hunt for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and wealth of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the advantages and excitement of this extraordinary city.