Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it isn’t an extensive period, I’ve acquired substantial knowledge. London is dynamic, characterized by its wide-ranging accommodation choices as well as its communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and discover public transport connections.
During my quest for a residence, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, where zones one and two represent the most central areas. London boasts an exceptional public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I intended to limit travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can incur fees up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s distinct fare structure. Central London attractions drive living expenses up. Thankfully, I transitioned to university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly cut rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds of the same age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially around exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The diverse ethnic communities in London are central to its cultural identity, offering varied neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as an energetic enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify a few community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. In the process of finding a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.