Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this may not be a lengthy timeframe, I have acquired some knowledge throughout my time here. London is a vibrant city, not just regarding its wide range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students in virtually checking out possible accommodations, their facilities, and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near major attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth movement and travel between zones. I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The significant tourist attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly reducing rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with students from various backgrounds and comparable age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complicated. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is notable for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.