Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not be an extensive period, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its wide range of lodging options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with many alternatives. Student accommodation and private housing feature options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, assess amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which allows for smooth navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower transport expenses since travelling between zones can be as high as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services depend on distance and the pricing scheme of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural makeup, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music heritage. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement of this remarkable city.