Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not be a lengthy timeframe, I have accumulated several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, providing a broad range of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with a myriad of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students to browse their potential housing options online, inclusive of facilities and distance to public transport.
In my endeavor to find a place to stay, I targeted renting a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the pricing system of each train operator. Central London, being home to iconic landmarks, leads to elevated living costs. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which substantially lowered rent obligations. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their home cultures within London. Southall in West London accommodates a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this amazing city.