Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although it’s not a long duration, I’ve gathered some experiences along the way. London is an energetic metropolis, offering an extensive range of housing choices and lively communities. Students have plenty of alternatives available. Both student residences and private housing present selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing options online, including the amenities offered and closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rent costs. I favoured intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be tough. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, creating a rich tapestry of varied neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of community neighbourhoods.
The best areas for living in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of the city’s housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this incredible city.