Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I have acquired various insights throughout this duration. London is a dynamic city, providing a vast selection of living arrangements and lively communities. Students find themselves with numerous options available, as both student residences and private housing offer configurations like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students browse potential homes online, along with associated amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify travelling and moving between zones. I preferred walking short distances to economize on travel costs, given that inter-zonal fares can soar up to £5.25 daily. Various Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London, with fares depending on distance and the pricing policies of train companies. The main attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and of a similar age group, a mix that’s harder to come by in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was a major priority for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for touches of familiarity from their home nations. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to live, appreciate the variety and depth of London’s housing options, explore cultural zones, and revel in the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.