Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy timeframe, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned for its varied housing options and lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student accommodation and private housing present a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, featuring amenities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an impressive transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes travel and navigation across zones seamless. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commuting more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central region. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines vary by distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s key attractions drive up living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while cheaper alternatives are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural diversity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their home cultures when in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of neighborhood communities.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.