Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months residing in London. While this duration may appear brief, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this period. London is an energetic city, offering not only a variety of housing options but also dynamic communities. Students have a myriad of selections at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private options present various features including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared rooms and private spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential living arrangements online, verifying amenities, and evaluating proximity to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social gathering places, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transportation network is exemplary, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones seamless. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Rates for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that can be more challenging to find in private residences.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver, particularly during exam days.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek to connect with aspects of their native countries. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population, with Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is a vibrant district filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace its diverse and rich accommodation landscape, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.