Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy span, I have gained various perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely due to its range of housing choices but also because of its multifaceted communities. Students find abundant options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential living options online, checking amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
While searching for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which streamline movement and travel between zones. I intended to lower travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside the heart of London. Fares for inter-zonal travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly alleviated rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, aiming to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group—an amalgamation that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores, including supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its difficulties. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for touches of familiarity from their homelands in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave brimming with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.