Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I have gained considerable insight. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also its rich communities. Students have ample choices right at hand. Both student residences and private housing provide facilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover the closest public transport links.
During my search for a residence, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, opting instead for walking shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare structure established by each train company. Central London hosts major attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, allowing us to significantly reduce our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and of similar age, a combination that is often harder to find in private properties.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are integral to its cultural diversity, providing various neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country’s atmosphere in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a vibrant area with Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.