Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although nine months is not an extensive duration, I have discovered several insights during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a wide array of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available, ranging from student residences to private flats, which include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio units, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to examine potential accommodations online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport options.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London boasts an excellent transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can run up to £5.25 per day, thus opting to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card selections have rendered university journeys cheaper. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services depend on the distance covered and the fare structure of each operating train company. The costs of living near Central London’s major landmarks are elevated. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a significant role in its cultural landscape, creating a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese dining, stores, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.