Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although nine months is a relatively short period, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London is a lively metropolis, not solely for its variety of housing options but also for its communities. Students have numerous opportunities right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Students living in the area can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, inspect amenities, and locate nearby public transport facilities.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a rental room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centrally located. London boasts a fantastic transport network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. My objective was to minimize transport expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London presents significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I had a friend attending the same university, and we opted to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent expenses. I preferred residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a duo that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being located near grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable options include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, showcasing various neighborhoods. A number of international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian dining spots, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Meanwhile, Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the vibrant West End of London, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal neighborhoods to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its lodging options, explore cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this incredible city.