Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired several observations along the way. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its extensive selection of housing but also for its varied communities. Students have a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, entertainment areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a reliable transportation network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance and fare structures of individual train operators. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on tasks, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental aspect of its cultural diversity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music environment. The Chinatown in the center of London’s West End serves as a bustling zone filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are determined by personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new place to live in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.