Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might appear brief, I’ve gained considerable insight during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and multicultural communities. Students enjoy a wide range of selections, including student residences and private lodgings, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as journeys between zones can reach up to £5.25 daily. I frequently opted to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. Central London features prominent attractions, contributing to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private dwellings.
Living close to grocery stores was critical for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies is time-efficient, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities constitute an essential part of its cultural fabric, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students wish to find a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-based neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.