Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy period, I have acquired several observations. London is vibrant, not only for its wide range of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private rentals include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and assess their proximity to public transit.
During my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize my travel expenditures, as inter-zonal travel can reach as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have contributed to reducing university commuting costs. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Thankfully, enrolling at university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which resulted in considerable rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less prevalent in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-saving for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall 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 celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.