Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy duration, I have gathered some experiences along the way. London is an energetic city, not solely for its diverse accommodation alternatives but also for the various communities that thrive within it. Students have a plethora of selection available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, along with the facilities provided and their proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To reduce travel costs, as crossing zones can be up to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to a high cost of living. Thankfully, enrolling at university with a friend permitted us to share a room, substantially decreasing rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall, in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal tastes and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.