Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this might not appear lengthy, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its diverse housing options but also by its energetic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including their features and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I wanted to keep travel expenses low since inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London drive up living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to split a room, considerably lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time for errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, houses a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, in the center of London’s West End, is a lively district filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.