Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I have gathered a wealth of experiences. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its multitude of living options but also its rich mix of communities. Students can find a plethora of choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, showcasing available amenities and their distance from public transport.
During my search for a living space, I sought a room in Central London for easy access to prominent sites, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between regions. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can incur costs up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts key attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, prompting us to share a room, which resulted in significant rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations with aspirations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies facilitates running errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The diverse ethnic communities of London are crucial to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the quest for a new residence in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.