Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though this period may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not just for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential rentals online, assess features, and discover nearby public transport routes.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies getting around and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone fares can soar up to £5.25 per day. Thus, I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card choices have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living expenses around Central London’s key attractions tend to be elevated. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which resulted in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, something harder to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their own cultural background in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London greatly depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.