Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I have gained a wealth of knowledge. London is a dynamic city, presenting a variety of housing options and lively communities. Students have numerous alternatives, ranging from university residences to private lodgings, including ensuite and suite facilities, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate public transport routes.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on finding a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city comprises six zones, with the primary zones being one and two. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 a day, thus opting to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the underground network, accessing areas outside of central London, with ticket prices varying by distance and train company fare structures. The expenses of living in Central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, which is often more challenging with private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, creating diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, presents a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-based neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on individual interests and requirements. While on the hunt for a new home in London, take advantage of its varied housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.