Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this time. London is an energetic city, driven not only by its varied housing choices but also by the communities that inhabit it. Students are offered a wide range of options. Both student accommodation and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, including the amenities provided and the closeness to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, covering the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to move around and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to keep my travel expenses lower since moving between zones could amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services operate in areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside the core of London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structures employed by each operating train company. Central London is home to main attractions, which contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent costs. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s tougher to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies within reach saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural identity, contributing to a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek elements of familiarity from their native countries. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and energetic music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated at the heart of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and dynamism of this extraordinary city.