Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated the nine-month mark of my residence in London. While this is not a long duration, I have compiled some observations. London is an energetic city, marked not only by its diverse housing selections but also by its eclectic communities. Students are presented with an array of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to view potential housing online, verify available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
During my housing quest, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensuring smooth navigation and travel between the zones. Personally, I chose to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel could cost up to £5.25 per day. I preferred walking short distances over taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant tourist attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, substantially reducing rent costs. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a diversity harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural tapestry, providing a rich assortment of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek familiarity with their native lands within London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few representations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When in pursuit of a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.