Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration is relatively short, I have gained a substantial amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present various alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and discover the closest public transport connections.
During my quest for living arrangements, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with one and two being the most central. London’s transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that’s harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s multicultural communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home country in the city. Southall in West London is home to a robust South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. To locate a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.