Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I commemorated my nine-month mark of residing in London. While this duration may appear short, I have garnered certain insights in this period. London is a dynamic city, presenting a plethora of housing possibilities and bustling communities. Students benefit from various options right at their fingertips, with both student residences and private accommodations offering features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can access platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate the nearness to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London is equipped with an exemplary transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares could climb to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking shorter routes rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly cutting down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix harder to find in private residences.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese eateries, retail outlets, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.