Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve accrued some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its array of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a wealth of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations present choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily arrange apartment tours, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential residences online, highlighting amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is partitioned into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 per day, opting to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university cheaper. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare system of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute significantly to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing to socialize with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more difficult to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to basic stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, offering an intricate blend of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few exemplars of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing alternatives, explore cultural districts, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.