Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not appear extensive, I’ve gained several perspectives during this period. London thrives with energy, not only due to its various housing options but also because of its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of selections available to them. Both student residences and privately rented accommodations provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to assess potential housing options, complete with their features and distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing effortless movement between zones. To minimize travel expenditures, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major tourist attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodation to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, whereas more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Choosing an area to live can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek to replicate the familiarity of their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in housing opportunities, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.