Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student lodgings and private living spaces offer features 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 browse potential housing online, assess available facilities, and discover local public transport connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a remarkable transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I intended to cut down on travel expenses, as travel between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Costs for inter-zone travel with these services differ based on distance and the pricing system of each train operator. The living expenses in Central London are high due to the proximity to major attractions. Fortunately, I shared a room with a university friend, leading to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aiming to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private residences.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play an essential role in its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students seek out the comfort of their own culture in London. Southall, located in West London, showcases a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area packed with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivals. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.