Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained considerable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices readily available. Both university housing and private residences present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider distances to public transport.
In my hunt for a living space, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain close to main attractions, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card solutions have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network to zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living costs near Central London’s prime attractions are a reality. Luckily, I had a friend at university, and we opted to share a room, which helped us save significantly on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s often tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Frequently visited supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options consist of Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies is a time-saver for errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to call home poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural identity, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for connections to their home country. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a substantial South Asian population offering Indian dining, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dictated by personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the comfort and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.