Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some valuable observations. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an array of choices readily available. Both student residences and private accommodations include options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six layered zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal movements can run as high as £5.25 each day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced the costs for university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, with ticket prices fluctuating based on distance and train company pricing structures. The high living costs associated with Central London’s notable attractions are a consideration. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds who are of similar age, a combination harder to come by in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, offering a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, showcases numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your passions and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodations, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.