Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear lengthy, I’ve accumulated some observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only because of its varied housing choices but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations present different variations such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including the amenities provided and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I wanted to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to split a room, greatly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being 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 essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse communities are pivotal to its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native country. Southall, in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.