Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely due to its array of housing options but also because of its eclectic communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both dormitory and private rental options include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I aimed to limit travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare system of each rail company. Central London contains major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly decreasing rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the comforts of their homeland within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.