Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied living arrangements but also by its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both communal student housing and private residences provide an array of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while those from abroad can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, assess the facilities, and locate the closest public transport links.
In my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network that includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement across different zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of using the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines fluctuate based on the distance traveled and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living in Central London can be expensive due to its attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s less common in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home culture in London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, embrace the cultural diversity and abundance of housing options, explore the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.