Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I’ve gained considerable insights during this period. London is an energetic city, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodation and private residences provide an array of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their prospective homes online, examine the amenities, and identify the closest public transport connections.
In my quest for a home, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain in proximity to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London presents significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to co-rent a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to discover in private residences.
For me, living in proximity to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging task. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a connection to their home country. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.