Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its wide array of housing choices but also by its varied communities. Students have a plethora of options to explore. Both student residences and private housing feature offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to view potential residences online, including amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I wanted to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone journeys can accumulate to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, encompassing destinations outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to the distance and fare policy of each train provider. The high demand for housing near Central London’s key attractions leads to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly cutting down the rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from a range of backgrounds and similar age groups—a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery outlets was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s cultural communities are fundamental to its identity, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students gravitate towards the familiarities of their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a large South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These only scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and needs. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and embrace the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.