Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have acquired a great deal of knowledge. London is an energetic city, known not only for its varied housing alternatives but also for its vibrant communities. Students are presented with numerous options right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private living arrangements include features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students have the convenience of booking apartment viewings effortlessly, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore their potential future homes online, examine the amenities offered, and assess their distance to public transportation.
In my hunt for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I opted to walk shorter routes rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting for university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London is home to numerous major landmarks, leading to higher living costs. Fortunately, I was going to university alongside a friend, which enabled us to share a room and greatly reduce our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with other students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, which would have been more difficult in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more affordable alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be complex. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting diverse neighbourhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown located in the core of London’s West End features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this remarkable city has to offer.