Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not appear to be an extensive duration, I’ve gathered various insights throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, rich in its assortment of housing options and lively communities. Students are presented with an abundance of choices. Both student residences and private housing present different alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible living arrangements online, check the facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can accumulate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Living in Central London incurs high costs due to its central attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a diverse mixture of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing opportunities, explore cultural hubs, and revel in the comfort and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.