Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic city, notable for its varied housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of possibilities right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with the amenities available and their distance from public transport.
In my search for a place to live, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s major attractions are noteworthy. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which significantly cut down our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being nearby essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall in West London features a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.