Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, I’ve gained some perspectives throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only because of its varied housing options but also thanks to its lively communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both student housing and private lodgings provide a range of alternatives including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange viewings of apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to investigate potential accommodations online, including offered amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to significant sites, social gathering places, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones straightforward. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can accumulate to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube network, reaching areas outside of central London. Charges for travel between zones on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London houses prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly alleviated rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and of the same age group, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Living near shops was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.