Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Even though it’s a brief period, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing selections but also by its vibrant communities. Students have an array of choices readily available. Both university accommodation and privately rented spaces present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, showcasing amenities and their nearness to public transport.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to primary attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted for walking short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travels more affordable. Moreover, services like London Overground and National Rail reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to cohabit, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate housing to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more elusive in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, offering a range of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.