Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I have gathered some experiences along the way. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a wide range of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students find a plethora of options readily available, with both student residences and private housing offering amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students have the advantage of easily scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, detailing features and nearby public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centres, and the Imperial campus. London features six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city is equipped with a fantastic transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and travel between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zone fares could escalate to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, servicing regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare schedules of individual train companies. Central London’s popular attractions lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a mix more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and necessities. When embarking on a housing search in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.