Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not appear to be a long time, I’ve acquired several perspectives along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, celebrated not only for its diverse range of housing options but also for the communities that reside within it. Students find themselves with numerous choices at their fingertips. Both student accommodation and private housing options present a variety of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule viewings for apartments, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine prospective housing online, showcasing amenities and distance from public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short routes instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the city center. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us significantly cut costs on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less commonly found in private rentals.
For me, having grocery stores nearby was essential. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The convenience of being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, showcasing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a thriving South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In the bustling heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These examples reflect just a few of the community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.