Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my residence in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its numerous communities. Students have a plethora of choices readily available. Both student lodgings and private housing provide options such as ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring their potential living spaces online, featuring amenities and transport connections.
In my quest for a place to live, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies commuting and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel may incur charges of up to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made journeys to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London features major attractions that drive up living costs. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in considerable rental savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural landscape, presenting diverse residential areas. Many international students seek familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers Chinese dining, shopping, and cultural events. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are influenced by your preferences and requirements. To uncover a new home in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.