Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month mark of my residence in London. Though this may seem brief, I’ve gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London exudes vibrancy, not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its various communities. Students can find numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private lodgings provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, featuring amenities and access to public transportation.
During my search for a residence, I focused on securing a room within Central London to stay close to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London boasts an outstanding transport system, with the underground (tube), buses, and trains facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low since moving between zones could cost up to £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize a bus or tube for convenience. Meanwhile, oyster card options have streamlined university commutes. London Overground and National Rail services also service regions beyond the Underground, reaching zones outside of Central London. Fares for inter-zone travel vary depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The presence of significant attractions in Central London generally drives living costs higher. Luckily, I went to university with a buddy, and we shared accommodation, significantly reducing rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a feat that would be challenging through private housing.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital retail locations like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London form an essential part of its cultural diversity, presenting various neighborhoods. Many international students search for a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home country. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End offers an array of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural experiences. These serve as examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London will vary based on individual interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home, embrace the rich diversity of London’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.