Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month mark of residing in London. While nine months may seem brief, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge in that timeframe. London is an energetic metropolis, not only because of its varied housing options but also due to its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices readily available. Both student accommodations and private housing provide an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, showcasing the amenities and closeness to public transportation.
While I was looking for a residence, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London is equipped with a superb transit system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones could reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made trips to the university more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching zones that lie beyond central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. Central London is home to major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with fellow students from a variety of backgrounds within the same age bracket—a combination that is often more elusive in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students arriving in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nation within this city. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to live in London hinge upon your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for your new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.