Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have reached a nine-month milestone in my stay in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained substantial insights. London is a bustling metropolis, known for its variety of housing options as well as its lively communities. Students have a wide array of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to transportation.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to cut travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside of the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, which results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often more challenging to find in privately rented properties.
For me, residing close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a dynamic mix of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their homeland. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and pulsating music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling district replete with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on your personal preferences and necessities. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.