Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just a few days ago, I completed my nine-month journey in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options accessible right from their locations. Both student residences and private accommodations feature numerous choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future homes online, showcasing available amenities and their distance from public transport links.
In my quest for a place to call home, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transport system, including the tube, buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and connect across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than getting on a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these modes vary according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high living costs near Central London’s main attractions can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is harder to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland available. Living near crucial stores like grocery chains and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is no easy task. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of familiarity from their home nations. Southall, situated in West London, houses a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and its lively music scene. The bustling Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to live in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.