Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I have gathered some valuable observations along the way. London is a dynamic city, not only due to its wide array of housing options but also because of its energetic neighborhoods. Students have a plethora of choices nearby. Both student residences and private lodgings offer a range of possibilities including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential accommodations online, showcasing available amenities and transport links.
During my hunt for housing, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the heart of the city. London boasts a fantastic public transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes traveling between zones effortless. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The central attractions of London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Easy access to basic stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps streamline errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London play an integral role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich selection of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comforts of their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian presence with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of the community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, explore distinct cultural locales, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.