Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might seem brief, I’ve gained several observations throughout this period. London buzzes with life, not solely for its wide array of living arrangements but also for its rich array of communities. Students have a plethora of selections available. Both student residences and private housing offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house collaborations. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment tours, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, review available features, and judge closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, vibrant social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has an outstanding transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily. I preferred walking short distances over taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, dramatically lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op abound, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in which to live poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a connection to their homeland. Southall, in West London, hosts a large South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. In South London, Brixton is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area abundant with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing opportunities, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and thrills of this extraordinary city.