Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone in London. Although it’s not a long period, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a vibrant city, not only for its wide array of living options but also for its rich communities. Students have an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student housing and private rentals provide various configurations including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in checking out their prospective lodgings online, complete with amenities and transport links.
Throughout my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the closest to the center. London features an excellent public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation across zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of individual train companies. Central London boasts numerous major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which greatly alleviated our rent burden. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a goal that would have been more challenging in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during busy exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a diverse range of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and shops for traditional attire. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling hub filled with Chinese dining options, markets, and cultural activities. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and delight in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.