Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve accumulated a wealth of experiences. London is a bustling metropolis, not only with its array of housing options but also with its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a variety of alternatives such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview future accommodations online, assess the amenities, and locate the nearest public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting could reach up to £5.25 a day. I preferred walking shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these routes fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is home to major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled in university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, yielding substantial savings on rent. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a feat that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, stores, and cultural activities. These serve as just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to stay in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and depth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.