Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic city, notable not only for its varied accommodation choices but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of nearby options. Both student residences and private housing feature selections like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, including facilities and nearness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since costs for inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. As a result, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made journeys to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. Central London presents significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and within a similar age range, which would have been more challenging in private accommodations.
Having nearby grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is home to a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.