Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its range of housing options but also by its multicultural communities. There are numerous choices available for students. Both student accommodations and private housing present selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the convenience of easily scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible housing online, evaluate amenities, and determine distances to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I focused on finding a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation between zones. I sought to limit travel expenses, given that commuting across zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. However, oyster card choices have rendered university travels more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail operations extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of different train companies. The high living expenses in Central London are offset by access to major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly alleviated rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from a variety of backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, producing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian populace featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and fashion boutiques. Brixton in South London boasts a prominent Afro-Caribbean community along with a lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases an array of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. In search of a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.