Contributed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained valuable perspectives during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, distinguished not only by its wide range of housing choices but also its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer variations like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, inspect available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room to rent in Central London, keeping me close to significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can accumulate to £5.25 daily, I opted for walking short distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. The fare for these services varies based on the distance traveled and each train company’s pricing structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Lucky for me, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, effectively lowering our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities form a key part of its cultural landscape, creating a rich variety of neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, set in the core of London’s West End, represents a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The prime areas to live in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. While embarking on your quest for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and depth of its housing options, explore cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.