Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might not appear lengthy, I have gathered various observations throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with countless options at their disposal. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, including information about amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major sightseeing spots, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and transit between zones. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of the respective train companies. The costs associated with living near Central London’s main attractions are quite steep. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, considerably reducing our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a diversity that is often harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s multicultural communities play a significant role in its cultural essence, providing a rich variety of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comforts of their home culture in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend upon personal interests and needs. When exploring for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its accommodation options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.