Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gathered some insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, not just for its range of living options but also for its multicultural communities. Students have various choices available to them. Both student residences and private accommodations provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, including the amenities and public transport connections offered.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, resulting in a substantial rent reduction. I preferred intercollegiate student residences, anticipating the opportunity to meet students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich assortment of varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is an energetic area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community hubs.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When looking for new accommodation in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the living options available, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.