Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy time, I’ve accumulated some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not solely for its wide range of housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can organize apartment viewings with ease, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom make it possible for international students to explore potential accommodations online, examine available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my accommodation hunt, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling between zones a breeze. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university rides more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The main attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a roommate enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is not an easy task. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale boasting numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.