Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may appear brief, I have acquired substantial insights during this period. London is an energetic city, known for its range of housing types as well as its multicultural society. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential housing online, including their facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room rental in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, promoting straightforward navigation and inter-zone travel. To minimize travel expenses, which can soar up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Plus, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground coverage, encompassing zones outside of central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operating company’s specific fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, offering a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the comforts of their home country while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Meanwhile, Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most desirable places to live in London vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.