Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of my life in London. Though it may appear brief, the experiences garnered have been substantial. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an extensive array of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them, from student accommodations to private rentals, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have no trouble arranging apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students’ exploration of their upcoming lodgings online, allowing them to check available conveniences and find nearby public transport links.
In my pursuit of accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key sites, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making itinerary navigation and zone travel straightforward. I specifically sought to lower travel expenses since journeys between zones could reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travel to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. The main attractions in Central London add to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a close friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly alleviating our rent burdens. I favored intercollegiate accommodation to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The closeness to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam phases.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural framework, providing a rich mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their home cultures. Southall in West London houses a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area home to numerous Chinese restaurants, boutiques, and cultural festivities. These represent merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing alternatives, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.