Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe is relatively short, I have acquired several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not just for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available. Student residences and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can easily schedule apartment tours, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring prospective accommodations online, along with their facilities and nearness to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it easy to move around and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal movement, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the city center. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to the high cost of living. Thankfully, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, helping to substantially lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to grocery stores and pharmacies saves valuable time on tasks, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood in London can be complex. The city’s cultural communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The finest places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing offerings, delve into cultural districts, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.