Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may seem brief, I’ve accumulated some valuable experiences. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing possibilities but also for its rich cultural diversity. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective homes online, detailing the amenities provided and their closeness to public transit.
In my quest for housing, I hoped to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric regions, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and commuting across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can ascend to £5.25 daily, opting to walk shorter distances rather than rely on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch out beyond the Underground system to areas outside the city center. Charges for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare policy. The prominent attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix less achievable in private homes.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be tough. The ethnic communities of London are essential to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their native countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living arrangements, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.