Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I completed nine months of my residency in London. While nine months may not seem like a long duration, I have gained a considerable amount of experience during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not just for its variety of housing options but also for its rich mix of communities. Students can access numerous choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, assess the amenities available, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university journeys considerably more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs near Central London’s popular attractions posed a challenge. Luckily, I had a friend with whom I was attending university, so we made the decision to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student housing, anticipating interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is frequently harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was very important to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; budget-friendly options comprise Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are a prominent component of its cultural fabric, providing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the comforts of home. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on your interests and necessities. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.