Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, I have gleaned various perspectives during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and varied communities. Students are presented with myriad alternatives, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while those from abroad can utilize websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes commuting and traveling between zones a breeze. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have considerably reduced costs for university commutes. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is less common in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homelands in London. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and preferences. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, immerse yourself in cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.