Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its array of housing possibilities but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly coordinate apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective living arrangements online, assess the amenities, and identify the nearest public transport connections.
During my search for a place to reside, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be near major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an impressive transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can tally up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have considerably reduced commuting costs to the university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London features prominent attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was going to university with a friend, so we chose to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in can be difficult. London’s multicultural communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a lively enclave packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to inhabit in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.