Written by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of living in London. Although this timeframe isn’t long, I’ve gleaned some experiences along the way. London is an energetic city, notable not just for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy an abundance of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer multiple selections, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local scholars can arrange apartment viewings with ease, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, including the amenities available and the convenience of public transport.
As I sought a place to stay, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university considerably more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts significant attractions, which leads to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is less common in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections with their homeland. Southall, located in West London, has a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just several instances of community-based neighborhoods.
The prime 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 housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.