Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is a spirited metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student housing and private residences present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their future residences online, examine amenities, and identify the nearest public transport routes.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to lessen travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted for walking shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside of central London. Charges for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train operating company’s fare system. Central London is home to prominent attractions, which results in higher living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not an easy task. London’s ethnic communities form a vital aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.