Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not be a long duration, I have acquired some perspectives. London is an energetic city, presenting a plethora of housing options and lively communities. Students have a multitude of selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while those from abroad can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, verify available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near primary attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six layered zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and transit among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, covering regions beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London drive up the living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend harder to encounter in private housing.
Living near grocery outlets was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s multicultural communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most desirable regions to live in London are dependent on personal preferences and requirements. To secure a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.