Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month residing in London. Although this period is relatively brief, I have gained some insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its vibrant communities. Students have an abundance of choices available right outside their doors. Both student residences and private accommodations provide possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal or private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, examine amenities, and discover nearby public transport options.
In my quest for living quarters, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric areas, with the innermost ones being zones one and two. London boasts an exceptional transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I intended to minimize traveling expenses, as intra-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have significantly reduced university travel costs. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend into regions beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the fare structure of individual train companies. Central London is home to major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which allowed us to save significantly on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in privately rented properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic groups play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, resulting in a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively enclave filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new dwelling in London, appreciate the variety and richness of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.