Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months residing in London. Although it might not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired several insights during this period. London is an energetic city, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both university accommodations and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. To economize on travel expenses, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate according to distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. The major attractions in central London lead to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, leading to significant savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often harder to find in private accommodations.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural mosaic, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London yearn for a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional apparel outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a dynamic area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.