Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired substantial knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have numerous choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide diverse selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential residences online, inspect the amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the central zones being one and two. London boasts an outstanding transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London has numerous attractions, which contributes to high living expenses. Thankfully, I was in university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to interact with students from diverse backgrounds and of similar ages, a connection that would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines daily errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian presence, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for living in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.