Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this timeframe may not be extensive, I have gathered some valuable experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing selections but also for its wide-ranging communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university accommodations and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can explore potential homes online through platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, which feature amenities and transport accessibility.
In my pursuit of housing, I specifically sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, community hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London’s transit network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as journeys between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. The oyster card options have rendered university-related commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside the heart of the city. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train service. Living expenses are elevated in Central London due to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to cut rental costs significantly. I favored intercollegiate student housing, anticipating to connect with peers from various backgrounds, a blend that is harder to find in privately rented properties.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common retail chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a suitable neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a core part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most desirable living areas in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing choices, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.