Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked the completion of nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have gained considerable insights during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its array of living arrangements but also because of its varied communities. Students are presented with multifarious options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private housing feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared as well as private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodation online, assess facilities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure established by each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, resulting in significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a combination harder to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek to replicate the familiarity of their home countries. 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 dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.