Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this duration may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city, presenting a plethora of housing options and bustling communities. Students have an array of choices available, including student residences and private lodgings with facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is divided into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, enables straightforward travel between these zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can escalate to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The steep living expenses in Central London can be mitigated by sharing a room with a friend, which effectively lowers rental costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to necessary shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections and familiarity while in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End bursts with energy, housing an abundance of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new dwelling, embrace the diverse housing options available in London, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.