Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing provide a wide range of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective housing online, evaluate amenities, and assess their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to find a room in Central London in order to be near major attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 each day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts significant attractions, resulting in high living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly decreased our rental costs. I preferred student accommodations affiliated with multiple colleges, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses difficulties. London’s diverse ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural essence, presenting a rich blend of neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for the comfort of their homeland’s customs. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Sitting in the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, stores, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London vary based on individual interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.