Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained a wealth of experience. London is an energetic city, notable not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy a wide array of choices. Both student residences and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s site. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel throughout the zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 per day for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground scope, reaching areas outside central London, with fares differing based on distance and train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share a room, which markedly decreased our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find within private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity while in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While on the quest for a new home in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.