Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its assorted housing options but also thanks to its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate nearness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and journey between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since cross-zone journeys can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The main attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living 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. Being near key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their native cultures. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community with a plethora of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the city’s varied housing offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.