Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired certain insights. London is vibrant, not solely due to its diverse housing options but also because of its varied communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine potential homes online, review facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal commutes can cost up to £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made university travel more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its significant attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodations, which greatly alleviated rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age demographics, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural identity, providing distinctive neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a semblance of familiarity from their native countries in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are a few examples of community-themed neighborhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.