Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive period, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a place to live, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Aiming to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I opted for walking short distances rather than utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside the central area. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train provider. The high living costs in Central London, attributed to its prime attractions, can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations for the opportunity to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and the same age group, a connection that might have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are a vital part of its cultural identity, providing a range of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese dining and shopping options and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.