Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While that duration might not appear extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives along the way. London is a bustling city, providing a multitude of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, which includes student residences and private lodgings with features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, along with their amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across the zones. To manage travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. However, options for oyster cards have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging to accomplish with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on running errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, presenting diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few representative examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to live in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing selections, delve into its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy it offers.