Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of living arrangements but also for its vibrant communities. Students have abundant choices in the vicinity. Both student residences and private housing provide options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and identify the closest public transport options.
During my search for a residence, I desired a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones could amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, which results in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a feat that would have been less achievable through private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek aspects of their home culture while in London. Southall, located 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 recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is an animated area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its living arrangements, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.