Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained considerable knowledge. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodation and private housing present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential lodgings online, check amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to discover in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.