Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it might not appear extensive, I’ve gained a wealth of experience. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options. Both student residences and private lodgings feature a range of alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Students living in the city can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students might rely on platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, assess amenities, and discover local public transport options.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers a superior transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating ease of movement and travel across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal journeys can amount to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made daily university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, covering locations outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare system. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly lower our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mixture that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a challenging choice. The ethnic communities in London play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, contributing to diverse locales. Many international students seek out familiar cultural surroundings reminiscent of their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, found in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area packed with various Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal regions in London for living are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. While looking for a residence in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of housing choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city has to offer.