Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem like a long duration, I have gained considerable insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a wide array of choices, including student residences and private living spaces, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, review amenities, and discover nearby public transport links.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social spots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and inter-zonal travel. To minimize transportation costs, as inter-zonal travel can accrue to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are often attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End boasts a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to inhabit in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence, embrace London’s variety of accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.