Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it’s not an extended time, I’ve gathered some observations throughout this duration. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have plenty of selections available to them. Both student lodgings and private residences present an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including available amenities and their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate easy movement and travel among zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones may cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London is home to significant attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages—a blend more difficult to achieve in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a key part of its cultural diversity, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural experiences. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London will vary based on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.