Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of living in London. While not an extensive duration, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is an energetic city, presenting a range of housing choices and vibrant communities. Students have plenty of options to select from. Both student accommodation and private rentals come with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, showcasing available features and closeness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To save on transportation expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones that lie outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London add to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, substantially lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities are an integral aspect of its cultural tapestry, offering a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best areas to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this fascinating city has to offer.