Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. This duration might appear brief, yet I’ve acquired several insights throughout my stay. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its wide range of housing options but also for its multicultural societies. Students have a vast array of possibilities available to them. Both university housing and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, highlighting their amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodations, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and move between zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal travel can be as high as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk short distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network into outer zones. Fare prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s trickier to find in private properties.
Residing near grocery outlets was important to me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can prove to be a challenge. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The prime locations for living in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.