Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with abundant choices. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide diverse selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, including features and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to move around and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing scheme of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London’s prime spots are noteworthy. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to significant rent savings. I found intercollegiate student accommodations preferable to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a challenge with private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps to streamline errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall, in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area known for its Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and complexity of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this exceptional city has to offer.