Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve garnered some valuable perspectives throughout this period. London is a dynamic city, characterized not only by its varied accommodation options but also by its lively communities. Students can avail themselves of numerous choices. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, assess the amenities available, and identify the closest public transportation links.
During my quest for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across various zones. Personally, I sought to minimize commuting expenses since traveling between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I chose to walk short distances rather than opt for a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services cover regions outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operating entity. Central London presents significant attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, prompting us to share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination less common in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural mosaic, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Most international students in London pursue a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual interests and needs. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.