Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is not extensive, I have gained substantial insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student residence and private lodgings provide opportunities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly arrange apartment tours, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse possible lodgings online, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses an excellent transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, connecting to zones outside of central London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and significantly reduce rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private properties.
Living near grocery outlets was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its cultural identity, offering a rich weave of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek to find elements reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. In the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown stands as a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London rely on personal interests and needs. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.