Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of living in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I’ve gathered several insights. London is a bustling metropolis, offering a plethora of housing options and dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings feature amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly organize apartment viewings, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my search for a place to stay, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an exceptional transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I chose to walk shorter distances to cut travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach further than the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to the distance and fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly lower rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rental properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London presents a dilemma. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural fabric, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the core of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify some of the distinctive community neighbourhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.