Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration is relatively short, I’ve gathered certain perspectives during this time. London is an energetic city, not only due to its myriad accommodation choices but also its multicultural environments. Students have plenty of options available. Both student residences and private housing offer various selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, including their amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social centers, 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 transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and navigation across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than opting for the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university journeys more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse districts. Numerous international students in London crave the comfort of their home culture. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End showcases a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.