Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed my first nine months living in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired valuable perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing options but also by its lively communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to preview potential lodgings online, complete with amenities and their distance to public transport.
In my endeavor to find a residence, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city consists of six concentric zones, with the innermost zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates navigation throughout the city and travel between zones. To manage travel expenses, given that inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance covered and the fare rules of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which considerably reduced rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Living within reach of grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies can streamline errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian community complete with Indian dining options, grocery markets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, storefronts, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are dependent on personal preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.