Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered several insights. London is an energetic metropolis, celebrated not only for its various housing alternatives but also for its communities. Students enjoy an array of options. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most urbanized. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily. I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Thankfully, oyster card options have lowered university travel expenses. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ depending on distance and the fare structure of individual train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributable to its major attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which might have been more challenging through private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital amenities such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic enclaves are central to its cultural identity, presenting vibrant neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centered neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and needs. While looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.