Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of my stay in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I have gathered some perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a vast array of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can promptly arrange apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, verify amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to be close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most centralized. London’s transport infrastructure, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, supports smooth movement and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal transit can cost up to £5.25 per day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train service. The cost of living in central London is influenced by its major attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, substantially lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s harder to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity from their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery establishments, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London vary according to individual interests and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill that this extraordinary city offers.