Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive period, I have gained some insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing a range of housing options and lively communities. Students have numerous possibilities, from student accommodations to private housing, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective lodgings online, assess amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed for a room in Central London to be near significant attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy city navigation. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I opted to walk short distances. Oyster card options have reduced transportation costs for university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, with fares dependent on distance and train company pricing structures. Major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodations, significantly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with students from varied backgrounds and ages, which is more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiar environments in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End features Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.