Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, it has been nine months since I relocated to London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I have gained considerable insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, renowned not just for its varied housing options but also for its thriving communities. Students find an abundance of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book viewings for apartments, whereas resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living arrangements online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since commuting between zones can reach up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each train service. Central London houses key attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to encounter fellow students from diverse backgrounds and the same age range, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home country. Southall in West London has a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.