Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve absorbed a number of insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have abundant choices right at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private housing provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential homes online, examine amenities, and discover the closest public transport links.
While searching for my residence, I targeted a room in Central London to stay close to primary tourist spots, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb public transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel across zones. I was eager to minimize travel costs since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the cost structure of each train operator. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private accommodations.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. The ethnic communities in London play a significant role in its cultural milieu, offering a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centered neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.