Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insights in this period. London is a dynamic city, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have multiple selections right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine their prospective lodgings online, including amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to stay near major attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than board a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs to the university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and fare structures of each train operator. Central London features significant sites, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I had a friend in university, and we decided to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
For me, residing near supermarkets was essential. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to inhabit poses challenges. London’s diverse communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural identity, presenting a rich collection of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries. Southall, in West London, hosts a large South Asian populace featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. In South London, Brixton is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical culture. Chinatown, located at the center of London’s West End, is a lively district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.