Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a myriad of housing choices and dynamic neighborhoods. Students enjoy various options, ranging from student residences to private housing, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and independent rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can browse platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover potential accommodations, amenities, and accessible public transport options online.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city features a superb public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensuring smooth movement and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card choices have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into outer zones, with ticket prices varying according to distance and train company fare structures. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly lower rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less commonly found in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections with their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These neighborhoods exemplify some of the vibrant community dynamics.
The ideal areas for living in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.