Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its range of housing alternatives but also its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with numerous options. Both student residences and private housing provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to explore their prospective living spaces online, examine the facilities, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room situated in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing and moving between zones simple. I aimed to minimize travel expenditure since inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced the costs of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching outlying areas. Fares for inter-zone trips fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London showcases major sights, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I had a university companion, and we shared accommodation, resulting in considerable rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to engage with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private housing.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps alleviate time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, contributing to diverse residential areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native cultures while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown in the West End is home to countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness inherent in its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and dynamism of this extraordinary city.