Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve absorbed several insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its varied housing options but also for its diverse communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices. Both student housing and private accommodations offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and consider closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures effortless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The presence of significant attractions in Central London leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, notably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend often challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their homeland. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and preferences. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.