Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant city, marked not only by its wide range of housing opportunities but also by its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present various options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine potential accommodations online, complete with details about the amenities provided and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to traverse and move between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or 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 areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, which is a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural makeup, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native country in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, serves as a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.