Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, it has offered a wealth of experiences. London pulsates with life, not only because of its wide-ranging accommodation selections but also due to its rich mix of communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and gauge their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, socialized areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases navigation around the city and travel between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can rack up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. That said, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare systems of the individual train companies. The cost of living in Central London is elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging with private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities form a core part of its cultural mosaic, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Meanwhile, Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These communities represent just a few examples.
The optimal areas for residing in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.