Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, I have gathered some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a multitude of nearby options. Both student residences and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future accommodations online, showcasing the facilities and access to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, vibrant social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach £5.25 daily. Thus, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of relying on public transport. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend to areas beyond the Underground system, accessing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these modes vary depending on distance and the fare system of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we chose to share a room, which greatly alleviated rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from different backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Notable supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood is a complex process. London’s ethnic groups significantly enrich its cultural tapestry, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home culture. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian populace with plenty of Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with countless Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural activities. These represent only a fraction of the community-driven areas.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, relish the diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.