Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though this timeframe isn’t particularly long, I’ve gathered a few observations. London is a vibrant city, not just because of its myriad housing options, but also due to its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private housing offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, complete with information about facilities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an impressive transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for effortless movement and travel between zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. Instead of opting for a bus or tube, I decided to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services vary with distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The presence of major attractions in Central London drives up living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, thereby significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that’s more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on daily tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be difficult. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students desire to find elements reminiscent of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a lively quarter with many Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. While on the lookout for a new residence in London, cherish the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.