Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gathered several observations during this time. London is an energetic city, not solely for its range of housing options but also due to its varied communities. Students have an abundance of alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private lodging provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared spaces and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, along with their features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to lease a room in Central London for easy access to main attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is classified into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate between zones. I wished to minimize travel expenditures, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London are influenced by its significant attractions. Thankfully, going to university with a friend permitted us to share accommodation, substantially lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood for living poses difficulties. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the midst of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.