Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this isn’t an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not just because of its plethora of housing choices but also due to the varied communities living here. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, showcasing their amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a rented room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly decreasing our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a combination less common in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are an integral part of its cultural tapestry, offering a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.