Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I have acquired several insights throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its eclectic mix of communities. Students are offered an abundance of choices. Both student accommodation and private housing present a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which ensures straightforward transit and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central part of London. Fares for these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions of Central London elevate living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I preferred student accommodations across colleges to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a feat that would have been more difficult through private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. Typical supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to key shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional shops. Brixton in South London is well-known for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
Identifying the best areas to reside in London depends on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.