Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I’ve discovered several insights. London is an energetic city, not only due to its various housing options but also because of its rich communities. Students have numerous choices available around them. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living arrangements online, complete with amenities and the proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I set my sights on renting a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), bus services, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on a bus or tube, I opted to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside the core of London. Travel fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London presents significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is tougher to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Most international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home nation. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend largely on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.