Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a long duration, I’ve gathered some valuable experiences during my time here. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them, including student residences and private lodgings with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living arrangements online, including amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, vibrant social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenditures, given that cross-zone travel can reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central zone. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly minimizing rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less common in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a touch of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and spirited music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a selection of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When seeking new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.