Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a considerable amount of experience. London is a vibrant city, renowned for its varied living arrangements and community spirit. Students find a multitude of options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, complete with amenities and public transport access.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university trips more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas outside the Underground system, reaching zones beyond the city center. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its popular attractions. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, considerably reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly stores like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in the West End is teeming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home, relish the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.