Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not a long stretch, I’ve gleaned various perspectives in this time. London pulsates with energy, providing an extensive range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students are presented with ample choices, encompassing student residences and private accommodations replete with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can scout for accommodations online through sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, evaluating amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is sectioned into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the central ones. London features a remarkable public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel between zones. To curb travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground to areas outside the central zone, with fares varying according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The central city’s major attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to cohabit, greatly easing rent burdens. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s harder to find in privately-owned properties.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam crunch times.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural fabric, showcasing a vibrant array of diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students search for connections to their homelands 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, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.