Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration is brief, I’ve garnered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing selections but also its abundant communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay near key sights, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures straightforward movement and transit between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 each day. I opted for walking over buses or the tube for shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made travelling to university less expensive. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on travel distance and each train company’s fare policy. The high living costs in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodations, which significantly eased our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and ages, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near basic shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, showcases a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in accommodation offerings, explore cultural hubs, and delight in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.