Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like an extensive period, I have gathered several observations. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer a range of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can quickly organize apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom help international students explore potential lodgings online, assess the amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
In my search for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a superb public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances in lieu of using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London form an essential part of its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.