Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired certain perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing selections but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives available. Both student accommodation and private housing provide multiple choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential homes online, check for available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is classified into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I intended to minimize travel costs since crossing zones can escalate to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground’s reach, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone traveling on these services depend on both distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private homes.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, creating a colorful array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a semblance of home in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population with its Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London suitable vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural communities, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.