Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gained considerable insight during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only regarding its diverse living arrangements but also for the communities that inhabit it. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review the amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I targeted a room in Central London to remain 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 boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for connections to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take delight in the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.