Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of living in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I have acquired several insights during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its array of housing options but also for its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students virtually tour their prospective housing, the available facilities, and their closeness to public transport.
In my endeavor to find accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal transport can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opting for a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas that extend beyond the Underground network, covering zones outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant decision. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural essence, featuring a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of purposeful neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new place to live in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.