Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s a brief period, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is dynamic, not only because of its wide-ranging housing choices but also due to its diverse communities. Students find numerous options readily available. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and access public transport information.
During my search for a place, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to ensure proximity to key landmarks, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an efficient transportation network comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since trips between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have significantly reduced university travel costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, covering zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is home to numerous attractions, which contribute to higher living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I was keen on residing in intercollegiate student lodgings, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting a range of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is populated by a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.