Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered various observations. London is a dynamic city, distinguished not only by its wide-ranging accommodation choices but also by its lively communities. Students have ample options right at their front door. Both student residences and private lodgings provide different options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and discover adjacent public transport links.
In my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to curtail travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train company. Central London is home to major landmarks, resulting in high living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private lodgings.
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near key shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a vital component of its cultural landscape, contributing to a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, offering Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The finest areas to live in London are determined by your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.