Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gathered some insights during this period. London is a lively metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students have numerous opportunities at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, inspect facilities, and locate the closest public transport options.
During my search for a place to call home, I sought a room for rent in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a robust transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to locales beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and fare structures of individual train companies. Central London hosts major landmarks, contributing to higher living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s diverse communities are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Most international students in London look for the comfort of their homeland. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a lively hub with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London largely depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.