Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, it has provided me with valuable perspectives. London is a dynamic city characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its lively communities. Students are presented with numerous choices. Both student residences and private housing come with an assortment of options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can leverage platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider distances to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay conveniently close to key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel between zones. I was keen to minimize travel expenses as moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside the central district. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which resulted in significant rental savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds within the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Well-known supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, supplemented by more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native country in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace its diversity and the wealth of accommodation choices, delve into cultural neighbourhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.