Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered a wealth of experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its various housing possibilities but also for its multicultural populace. Students have an array of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives such as ensuite bathrooms and suite options, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, complete with details on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I aimed to secure a room in Central London so I would be close to prime attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an efficient transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and connectivity between zones. Personally, I wished to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares could escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system to outer zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train operating company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major landmarks, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I was attending university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, as I hoped to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with a multitude of Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and pulsating music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a wide selection of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.