Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not just for its varied housing opportunities but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate the nearest public transport connections.
In my quest to find a place to stay, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mixture that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are a key component of its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a fraction of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to stay in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.