Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wide range of housing options and thriving communities. Students have an array of choices available, such as student accommodations and private rentals featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate available public transport options nearby.
In my quest for living arrangements, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones could cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in central London are influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, I attended school with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, something that would be more difficult in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mixture of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for elements reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London may vary based on personal preferences and needs. While searching for your new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.