Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained some perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, featuring a broad range of housing options and varied communities. Students have numerous alternatives available, from student residences to private living spaces, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment inspections, while international students can scout prospective places to live online through platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom, reviewing amenities and the closeness to public transport.
In my quest to find a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for easy movement and travel among zones. To cut down on transportation expenses, as inter-zonal travel can escalate to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s major attractions play a significant role in the high cost of living. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we collaborated on a room, which considerably lowered rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that’s harder to find in private properties.
Residing near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant collection of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area abundant with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.