Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations provide diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to peruse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
During my search for housing, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving between zones simple and efficient. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can tally up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. On top of that, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, servicing areas situated outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare policies. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I started university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was paramount for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be complicated. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London pursue a sense of connection to their home country. Southall, situated in West London, hosts a sizable South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.