Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this might seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic metropolis, notable not only for its varied housing choices but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of options available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, complete with details about amenities and access to public transportation.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to be in proximity to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, connecting with zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share accommodations, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies close by saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural identity, creating diverse locales. Many international students look for familiarity reminiscent of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, houses a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, retail stores, and cultural happenings. These examples showcase just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement that this extraordinary metropolis offers.