Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back marked my nine-month journey in London. While nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insights during this time. London is a dynamic city, not only because of its varied housing choices but also its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private housing provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studios, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate the nearest public transport links.
During my search for a living space, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London boasts significant attractions, leading to higher living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, greatly lowering our rent expenses. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds of similar ages, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their culture. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant area with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to live in London hinge on your preferences and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.