Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve gained several perspectives in this time. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its wide range of housing options but also due to its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of selections available. Student accommodations and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, inclusive of amenities and access to public transport.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social destinations, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a fantastic transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the specific pricing structure of each train company. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, drastically decreasing rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural framework, offering a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the familiarity of their home country within this metropolis. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional apparel stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.