Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I have recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not be an extensive duration, I have acquired several experiences during my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students explore possible living spaces online, along with details on the amenities and proximity to public transportation.
During my hunt for a place to reside, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain in close reach of key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London features an outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances over using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, options with an oyster card have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and each train company’s fare system. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which dramatically lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less likely in privately owned properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with a plethora of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as mere examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for residing in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. While on the hunt for a new place in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.