Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although nine months may not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is a vibrant city, not only because of its extensive accommodation options but also due to its varied communities. Students enjoy numerous options readily available to them. Both student residences and private lodging provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, assess the amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I personally aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services encompass a broader area beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare structure of each train operating company. Central London houses major attractions, resulting in exceedingly high living costs. Fortunately, I was attending university alongside a friend, so we opted to share a room, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is tougher to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets available include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time when taking care of errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is quite challenging. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Most international students in London seek the comfort of their home country within the city. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic enclave filled with multiple Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its lodging choices, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.