Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gained a great deal of insight. London is an energetic city, providing a variety of accommodation styles and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have numerous options available to them. Both university residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private spaces, studio flats, and communal living. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including features and proximity to public transport.
During my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to find a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies moving around the city and traveling between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The high-profile attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I shared a room with a friend from university, which significantly cut down on rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varying backgrounds and ages, a blend that is tougher to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time during errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be demanding. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are a vital part of its culture, offering a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire a sense of connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few examples of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation styles, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.