Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, I have gained quite a lot of insight during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only because of its myriad of housing choices but also due to its multicultural societies. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student accommodations and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, review facilities, and identify nearby public transport options.
In my pursuit of a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social activities, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones representing the most central areas. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it convenient to traverse and move between zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail connections extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each railway provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is not an easy task. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall, located in West London, houses a substantial South Asian community complete with Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area showcasing numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.