Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have passed the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration might seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its extensive housing choices but also its multicultural societies. Students are presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Student accommodations as well as private rentals provide a range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international scholars to explore potential housing online, examine available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest to find a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating convenient navigation and travel among zones. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have lowered the expenses for university journeys. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the fare guidelines of each train operator. The high living expenses in central London are attributable to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I leaned toward intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with pupils from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to locate in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic groups are a core component of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area teeming with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London truly depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.