Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a long duration, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is lively, not only due to its variety of housing choices but also because of its communities. Students have a plethora of options available at their doorstep. Both student residences and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore future housing online, verify amenities, and access links to public transport.
During my property search, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs around Central London’s key attractions are a drawback. Thankfully, I attended the university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly reduced our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and age groups, which is often more difficult to accomplish with private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Most international students strive to find a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best parts of London to reside in hinge on your preferences and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.