Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing alternatives and diverse communities. Students find themselves with an abundance of options. Both student residences and private accommodations offer facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, individual and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with their amenities and proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a commendable transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel among zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, helping to significantly lower rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is not an easy task. The city’s ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home nations in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When exploring for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.