Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this may not be a long duration, I’ve gathered several insights throughout this period. London stands as a vibrant city, not only for its array of housing options but also for the multifaceted communities that dwell here. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to assess their potential accommodations remotely, along with the amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed for a room rental in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city showcases an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies travel and navigation between zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than opting for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions of Central London add to the high living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s harder to discover in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam stretches.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant choice. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of familiar cultural settings. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and bustling music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are simply a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. While looking for a new home, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.