Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only because of its varied housing choices but also its vibrant communities. Students enjoy numerous options right at their doorstep. Both student lodgings and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, featuring amenities and accessibility to public transport.
During my quest for a place to stay, I preferred a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network into zones outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares depend on distance and the fare structure established by each train company. Central London possesses major attractions, thus elevating living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been less feasible through private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time during errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling neighborhood rich with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples highlight just a few of the vibrant community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.