Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not be a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired various insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just because of its wide-ranging housing alternatives but also due to its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of options at their disposal. Both student residences and private accommodations offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international students in examining potential lodgings online, alongside their facilities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to stay, I aspired to secure a room in Central London for proximity to major attractions, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling smooth navigation and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the particular fare structure of each train operator. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share accommodation, considerably lowering rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is rarer in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, represents a lively area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most favorable locations to reside in London hinge upon personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city has to offer.