Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have picked up several insights. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing selections but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options in the vicinity. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective housing options online, showcasing amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my hunt for a place to stay, I desired a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to traverse and travel between different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since moving between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced the costs of commuting to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services cover regions beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, leading to high living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend meant we could share a room, resulting in considerable savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to come across in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Convenience to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural identity, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek elements reminiscent of their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.