Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may seem brief, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing selections but also by its rich communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options, as both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations virtually, inclusive of amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superior transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the core of London. Fares for travel between zones on these services are determined by distance and the specific fare structure of each rail company. The central part of London features major attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was imperative for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Deciding on a neighbourhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an essential aspect of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native country. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighbourhoods.
The optimal places to live in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.