Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As of late, I have hit the nine-month milestone of my residency in London. Although it may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve accumulated some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, distinguished not only by its array of accommodation options but also by its multifarious communities. Students are faced with numerous choices. Both student housing facilities and private rentals offer an assortment of amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently organize flat viewings, while international students may utilize services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, assess amenities, and identify nearby public transport options.
During my search for a lodging, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card alternatives have reduced commuting costs for university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail networks extend beyond the Underground, accessing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London add to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred student accommodations across colleges to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. The usual grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand tasks, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The diverse ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural richness, creating a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire a connection to their homelands within London. Southall in West London accommodates a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When seeking a new residence in London, seize the moment to explore the city’s diverse accommodation offerings, delve into its cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill that this remarkable city has to offer.