Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with numerous options to consider. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students in finding future housing online, comparing amenities, and examining access to public transport.
As I searched for a residence, my aim was to secure a room in Central London for easy access to significant landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation around the city and travel between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal commutes can amount to £5.25 daily. Hence, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, extending into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structures of individual train operators. Central London boasts prominent attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations with the hope of interacting with peers from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a blend that’s often challenging to come by in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shop locations such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London are a crucial part of its cultural landscape, providing a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home country while in this city. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music vibe. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, boutiques, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.