Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London, so I could be near key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, options like the Oyster card have made traveling to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts numerous major attractions, which results in higher living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent expenses. I had a preference for intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse cultures and similar age groups, a mix that is more difficult to come by in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, providing a rich variety of different neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When searching for new housing in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.