Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this time. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present an array of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential rentals online, review the amenities provided, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be adjacent to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card discounts have made daily university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operating company. The central part of London hosts numerous major attractions, which consequently elevates living costs. Luckily, I had a friend at university, so we opted to cohabit, significantly lowering our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend tougher to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to important stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Meanwhile, Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring abundant Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.