Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve accumulated various observations during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available, encompassing student residences and private rentals, featuring choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
During my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I preferred walking short distances to cut travel costs, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by the area’s main attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is less likely in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket choices include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies within reach saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.