Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also because of its communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring prospective lodging online, reviewing amenities, and accessing public transport information.
In my search for a residence, I focused on locating a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an efficient transportation system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy navigation between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that extend beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Central London houses significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is typically harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek aspects of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is known for its prominent South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the center of London’s West End, is a lively enclave with an array of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented areas.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new home in the city, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.