Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its dynamic communities. Students enjoy an abundance of options right at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences provide diverse alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange flat viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a home, my goal was to lease a room in Central London, aiming to stay near significant sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, with the first two zones considered the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel across zones quite simple. Personally, I wished to cut down travel expenses, as crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside of central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the tariff system of each train operator. Central London hosts key attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, anticipating the opportunity to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more difficult to encounter in private lettings.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, creating a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area replete with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These serve as just a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The most desirable locations to reside in London rely on your personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its living options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.