Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not appear extensive, I’ve accumulated several observations during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a broad array of living arrangements and varied communities. Students have countless selections available, ranging from student residences to private living spaces, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while international students can take advantage of platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible housing options online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay in proximity to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London exhibits an outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling effortless navigation and movement between zones. Personally, I sought to reduce travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a difficult choice. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, at the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area loaded with numerous Chinese dining venues, shops, and cultural happenings. These are but a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.