Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not appear to be an extended duration, I’ve gained some perspectives throughout this time. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing choices but also for its active communities. Students have numerous options available nearby. Student lodging and private rentals provide a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective housing online, assess the available facilities, and locate the nearest public transportation links.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prime attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on the distance and fare structure of each train operator. Central London, being the site of major attractions, results in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting choice. The ethnic communities of London are a vital part of its cultural tapestry, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a dynamic enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, fully appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.