Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of options. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective housing online, evaluate amenities, and judge the distance to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward movement and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground’s scope, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was imperative for me. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant mix of diverse areas. Many international students look for connections to their home nations. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population with its Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical environment. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an array of Chinese eateries, retail shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new place in London, embrace the city’s diversity and variety of housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the accessibility and vibrancy of this incredible metropolis.