Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, the amount I’ve learned in this period is substantial. London is a dynamic city, rich in not just accommodation variety but also community diversity. Students find a wealth of options right at their fingertips. Whether it be student residences or private rentals, there are numerous choices available such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house-sharing arrangements. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and locate the closest public transport links.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure is commendable, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating simple navigation and commuting across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses down, as inter-zonal commutes can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or tubes. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the city center. Fare rates for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London is home to numerous attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I had a friend at university with whom I decided to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often challenging to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was vital to me. Common supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op were readily accessible, with more affordable options available such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shopping locations, including supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities significantly contribute to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. A number of international students in London seek connection to their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian presence with a variety of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music environment. Chinatown situated in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate the community-focused neighbourhoods available.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the plethora of diversity and richness in its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy this extraordinary city offers.