Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its thriving communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer a range of alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, evaluate available amenities, and determine distances to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure 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 the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing a bus or tube. However, Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses significant attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in which to live can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness present in its accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.