Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month mark since relocating to London. Though it’s a relatively brief time, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices readily available. Both university accommodations and private rentals provide different kinds of living arrangements, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to browse potential housing options online, review amenities, and identify nearby public transport routes.
While I was looking for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London so that I would be near significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and inter-zone travel. I was keen on minimizing travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. Instead of utilizing buses or the tube for short journeys, I opted to walk. Nevertheless, oyster card promotions have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail lines service areas outside the Underground network, extending to regions beyond Central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high cost of living near Central London’s major landmarks is a reality. Fortunately, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
Being in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common grocery chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as budget alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant choice. The ethnic communities in London are an integral part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native culture within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian demographic with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London are contingent upon your personal interests and requirements. To discover your new residence in London, embrace its diversity and the richness of housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.