Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
As I recently completed nine months residing in London, I have acquired several observations in this timeframe. The city is bustling, not only for its wide variety of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of selections available. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, including available amenities and access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social scenes, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the central areas. London features an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. I aimed to lessen travel expenses since inter-zonal fare can go up to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Plus, London Overground and National Rail Services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major landmarks in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, leading to a considerable reduction in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is tougher to discover in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was important for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich mix of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek a taste of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents countless Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.