Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the nine-month milestone in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students benefit from a plethora of options right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide a range of possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport links.
In my hunt for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to major tourist spots, social areas, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating travel and navigation between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options significantly reduced costs for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by the significant attractions in the area. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which led to considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. The ethnic communities within London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community with an array of Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and needs. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.