Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extended period, I have gathered some observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only due to its diverse living arrangements but also because of its multi-faceted communities. Students have a wide array of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective housing online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and navigation between zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones situated outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly decreasing rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination harder to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with lower-cost alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave featuring a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.