Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve acquired several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of alternatives available. Both student housing and independent accommodations offer a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, check facilities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can total £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made traveling to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Charges for inter-zone travel on these systems vary by distance and fare structures of each rail operator. The prominent attractions in Central London significantly elevate living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared accommodation, effectively lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student lodgings, anticipating meeting individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that’s trickier to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with numerous Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an array of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are but a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London will depend on your personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.