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 isn’t a lengthy timeframe, it has been sufficient to grasp several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of living arrangements and dynamic communities. There are countless options available for students, such as student residences and private lodgings that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate potential housing online, examine available facilities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features a robust public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for simple navigation and movement across zones. To cut down on transportation costs, since traveling between zones can be expensive, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made it easier to commute to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, extending to areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, by sharing a room with a university friend, we were able to significantly decrease our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix less common in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to key shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, providing a vivid array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for the comfort of their home nations while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music ambiance. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and variety of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.