Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I’ve absorbed a wealth of experience in that time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its varied housing possibilities but also because of its communities. Students have a multitude of options available right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences provide multiple choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their prospective dwellings online, showcasing offered amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transport network that encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each operating train company. Central London features major attractions, resulting in exceptionally high living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, leading us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student housing, aiming to meet students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s more difficult to find in private accommodations.
Being located near grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit is quite a task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. A majority of international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Nestled in the core of London’s West End, Chinatown is a lively enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing alternatives, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.