Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months residing in London. While it may not be a long duration, I have acquired several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its wide-ranging housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students attract a plethora of choices. Both university residences and private living arrangements consist of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and gauge accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key landmarks, 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 an efficient public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly diminishing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are a pivotal part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a variety of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.