Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days back, I reached the nine-month milestone in London. Even though it’s not an extended period, I have gained considerable insights. London is dynamic, boasting a variety of housing options and communities. Students can select from numerous alternatives, whether it’s student residences or private rentals, encompassing ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, review amenities, and locate public transport routes.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, allowing easy mobility across zones. I focused on minimizing travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have facilitated cheaper commutes for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand their reach to areas beyond the Underground, into zones outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. Central London hosts significant attractions, leading to increased living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural diversity, presenting a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a vibrant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, offers a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. To find a new home in London, take advantage of its varied accommodation choices, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vitality of this extraordinary city.