Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is an energetic city, not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university housing and private residences provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
During my hunt for a room, I aimed for a location in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is sectioned into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Oyster card options have reduced university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services service areas extending beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare systems of each train operator. Central London features significant attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies aids in saving time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough decision. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Many international students look for familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling locale filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When exploring for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.