Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my stay in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have gained significant insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its variety of housing options but also by its eclectic communities. Students can find numerous nearby choices. Both accommodation specifically for students and private housing provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, complete with details on amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I sought a room in Central London to ensure proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a robust transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, including zones situated outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to cohabitate, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London form a crucial part of its cultural identity, creating diverse residential areas. Many international students seek a touch of their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and the abundance of accommodation choices, delve into its cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy that this extraordinary city has to offer.