Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although this may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained substantial knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not just for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both university accommodation and private housing provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and consider distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my aim was to lease a room in Central London for proximity to key landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and transit between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Thankfully, I began university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which substantially reduced rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing with the hope of meeting peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private accommodation.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination times.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a significant choice. London’s diverse communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a variegated tapestry of unique neighbourhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity with their native country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the centre of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.