Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this duration might not seem extensive, I’ve gained several insights along the way. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private rentals provide diverse options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings, whereas international students may utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential residences online, examine available facilities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my hunt for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes moving around and traveling between zones quite simple. To economize on travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, leading to a substantial decrease in rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend harder to find in private properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy feat. The city’s ethnic communities are key components of its cultural tapestry, showcasing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity from their home nations within London. Southall, in West London, has a large South Asian community characterized by Indian restaurants, grocery shops, 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 enclave filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These serve as just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. While on the quest for a new home in London, relish the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, explore cultural hubs, and appreciate the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.