Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residency in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment tours, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in surveying their prospective homes online, showcasing facilities and public transportation connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aspired to rent a room in Central London to stay near prominent sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating seamless navigation and travel across zones. My goal was to minimize commuting expenses since traveling between zones can lead to costs as high as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, substantially cutting our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more elusive in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy feat. London’s multicultural communities play a pivotal role in its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of connection to their homeland. Southall in West London has a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, boasts a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The prime locations for residing in London are contingent on individual interests and necessities. While seeking your next home, embrace the variety and richness of London’s housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.