Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this might not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve gained valuable perspectives during my time here. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its extensive range of housing options but also by its varied communities. Students have an abundance of choices available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide a multitude of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can seamlessly organize apartment viewings, whereas websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective lodgings online, detailing their amenities and distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lessening rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a mix that is harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a semblance of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian populace, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place to call home in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and exhilaration of this extraordinary city.