Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired various insights throughout this experience. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a multitude of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students are presented with various options, such as student residences and private lodgings featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment tours, whereas international students might utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential residences online, evaluate available facilities, and consider closeness to public transport.
During my quest for a place to stay, my objective was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it convenient to travel and navigate between these zones. To minimize travel expenses, I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending to regions outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s prominent attractions drive up living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend during university enabled us to significantly cut down on rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is often more difficult to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby streamlines errands, particularly during examination phases.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, resulting in diverse neighborhoods. Many international students pursue familiarity from their native countries within London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations for living in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing alternatives, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.