Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem short, I’ve gathered several insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not just for its variety of housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in checking their prospective accommodations online, including available amenities and transport links.
In my quest for living arrangements, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to stroll short distances rather than using a bus or tube. However, oyster card choices have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train operator’s fare structure. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to higher living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds of similar age, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is complex. London’s diverse ethnic communities are central to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London houses a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a dynamic hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.