Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extensive timeframe, my experiences have been enlightening. London is an energetic city, noted not only for its variety of housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students can find numerous choices right at their doorstep. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
During my search for a living space, my focus was on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel fees can reach up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered commute costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been tougher with private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more economical choices are 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 daunting. The ethnic communities in London are crucial to its cultural identity, resulting in a rich tapestry of neighborhoods. A significant number of international students in London seek connections to their home countries. Southall, situated in West London, features a sizable South Asian community with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and boutiques selling traditional garments. Brixton, located in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the midst of London’s West End, serves as a bustling enclave filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.