Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this isn’t an extensive period, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its wide range of housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently book apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, review the amenities offered, and their closeness to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near significant attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central area. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare policies set by each train company. Central London houses many significant attractions, leading to higher living costs. Fortunately, I joined university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with cost-effective alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, showcasing a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students yearn for a connection to their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian dining options, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, represents a bustling hub with countless Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent on your personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.