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 seem extensive, I have gathered some observations during this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its extensive range of housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private living arrangements offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, featuring amenities and closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to cut down on travel costs since inter-zonal journeys can set one back up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commutes to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending to zones outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I pursued university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which significantly decreased our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups, a mix that is tougher to locate in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex choice. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural framework, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with countless Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and shops offering traditional attire. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.