Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Having recently hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London, I have accumulated several observations throughout this duration. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its variety of housing choices but also for its rich and diverse communities. There are countless options available for students. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while services such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with details on their amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for living arrangements, I targeted a room in Central London to be close to prominent sights, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an impressive transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones straightforward. To minimize commuting expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal travel, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the cost of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fare rates for inter-zone journeys on these services vary according to distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. The significant attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to split a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Having grocery stores close by was essential for me. Major supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. The ethnic communities in London play a vital role in its cultural fabric, creating a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London houses a large South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and lively music culture. Chinatown located in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.