Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its various housing options but also for its multicultural populace. Students have a multitude of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can efficiently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, along with accompanying amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
During my quest for a place to stay, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commuting can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground scope, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to escalated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and comparable age groups, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses challenges. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural richness, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for elements of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional fashion boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese dining options, stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.