Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem extensive, I have acquired various perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing choices but also for the vibrant communities that flourish here. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private rentals come with amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and gauge distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to major attractions, bustling social scenes, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superior transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to traverse and travel across zones. I was keen to limit my travel expenses as inter-zonal transportation can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the central zone. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The cost of living in Central London is influenced by its array of attractions. Thankfully, I had a university companion, and we opted to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aspiring to connect with peers from varying backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Choosing the right neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a taste of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is notable for its substantial South Asian population, offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.