Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month mark in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London pulsates with energy, not just because of its variety of housing choices but also its communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their fingertips. Whether opting for student housing or private rentals, selections include ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared accommodations, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, evaluate amenities, and locate public transport links.
In my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to major landmarks, social centres, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates ease of movement across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travels could cost as much as £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than utilize bus or tube services. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend service beyond the Underground’s reach, covering areas in zones outside central London. Fares for travel between zones on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structures of individual train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a university friend helped us substantially cut down on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is a blend less common in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op were prevalent; for budget-friendly options, Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time for daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse areas. Many international students search for connections to their homeland within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community as well as a spirited music environment. Chinatown, located in the centre of London’s West End, is filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a fraction of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.