Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have gained considerable knowledge. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an extensive array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students can select from multiple options, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I targeted a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones quite simple. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 per day for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more reasonable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside the central part of London. Ticket prices for these services vary based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London is not an easy task. The city’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, offering a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for the comforts of their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional garment shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the centre of London’s West End is a lively area brimming with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-rich neighbourhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to call home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.