Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Despite the brief duration, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its numerous housing choices but also its rich array of communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private accommodations provide features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential residences online, showcasing amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central areas. London boasts an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone journeys can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on a bus or tube. Nonetheless, options like the Oyster card have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by its famous attractions. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to key stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian cuisine, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and wealth of its housing possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.