Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, not solely because of its varied housing options but also due to its lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present numerous options such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and home shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living arrangements online, evaluate amenities, and assess their distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near major sites, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to move around and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in substantial rent savings. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend harder to find in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic groups are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a considerable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When pursuing a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.