Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gathered various observations throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned for its multitude of housing options as well as its eclectic communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, detailing the amenities provided and their accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an impressive public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. I wished to minimize transportation costs, as inter-zonal travel fares can climb to as much as £5.25 per day. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting for university much more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, accessing zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The living costs in Central London are elevated due to the abundance of major attractions. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to split a room, which resulted in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to meet peers from various backgrounds and comparable ages, a combination more difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are critical to its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a colorful enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a few instances of community-driven neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.