Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem lengthy, it has provided me with valuable insights. London thrives as a vibrant city, not only due to its varied housing options but also its communities. Students enjoy numerous opportunities right at their doorstep. Various housing arrangements, including student accommodations and private rentals, present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible living options online, assess features, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my search for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transportation system is exceptional, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living expenses around Central London’s key attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I studied alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a demographic mix less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for my convenience. Common supermarket chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural diversity, establishing distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling community boasting numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These illustrate some of the neighborhood communities available.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in this city, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city has to offer.