Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I’ve gained some perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant city, not only due to its extensive variety of housing options but also because of its eclectic communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations encompass various offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, complete with details on amenities and distance to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and journey between zones. I sought to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching zones farther from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, substantially lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to engage with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, situated 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 scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling locale with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.