Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have gathered various experiences during my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just in its array of housing options but also in its communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite or suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and shared accommodations. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to examine possible housing online, including available amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my search for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower commuting costs, as inter-zone journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The major attractions of Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often less prevalent in private accommodations.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are core to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their native culture in this city. Southall in West London is home to a sizeable South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.