Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Though this time frame is not particularly long, I have acquired some valuable observations. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a wealth of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students are offered a plethora of options, such as student halls and private residences featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange viewings for apartments, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom aid international students in virtually scouting future accommodations, amenities, and closeness to public transport.
When I was on the hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room within Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating and traveling across zones straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk shorter routes instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. The fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominence of Central London’s attractions leads to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rental costs. I opted for intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s less common in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retail outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are key components of its cultural essence, showcasing a vibrant spectrum of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home cultures in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and energetic music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave teeming with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best regions to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new place to call home in London, celebrate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.