Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a significant duration, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London thrives with life, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their fingertips. Both university housing and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring future lodgings online, verifying amenities, and locating connections to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an efficient transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating smooth navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can incur costs up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel less expensive. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend services beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. Central London is home to many prominent attractions, contributing to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations in London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London serves as a lively hub filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These serve as mere illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London largely depend on your personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, fully engage with its various accommodation choices, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.