Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this is not an extensive period, I’ve gathered some insights. London is lively, thanks not only to its varied housing options but also to its communities. Students have a plethora of choices readily available. Both student residences and private housing present options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and discover links to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to move around and transition between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could ramp up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced university commute costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features significant attractions, driving living costs upwards. Luckily, I was at university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more difficult through private properties.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, as well as budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential part of its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home country in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End showcases Chinese restaurants, boutiques, and cultural activities. These exemplify community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. To secure a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and thrills this extraordinary city has to offer.