Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I celebrated my nine-month milestone residing in London. While nine months might appear brief, I have absorbed a great deal during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not just by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their front door. Both student residences and private housing provide a range of selections including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective lodgings online, complete with details about amenities and distance to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Inter-zone travel costs on these services differ based on distance and the fare schedules of each train operator. Central London presents major attractions, which contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often rarer in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting the right neighborhood to reside in poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic enclaves are vital to its cultural identity, weaving a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek something familiar from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely some examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.