Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may not appear lengthy, I have acquired several insights in this duration. London is an energetic metropolis, not only regarding its varied housing selections but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to check potential housing options online, along with their features and proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I wanted to limit travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground coverage, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to co-share a room, noticeably lowering rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and age ranges, a combination harder to find in private options.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling district with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.