Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching my nine-month milestone residing in London. While this period may not be extensive, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this experience. London is a dynamic metropolis, known not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a multitude of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences offer various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing opportunities online, including amenities available and closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room for rent in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is a hub for major attractions, which contributes to the elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly lessened our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence can be difficult. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London wish to find similarities to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are dictated by individual preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.