Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not seem like a significant duration, I have acquired some valuable insights. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its dynamic neighborhoods. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential accommodations online, review amenities, and discover the nearest public transport links.
While looking for a place to reside, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, ensuring proximity to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, including the tube, buses, and trains, facilitating smooth navigation across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones could amount to £5.25 per day. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances rather than taking a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central part of London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on the distance and pricing structure of each train operating entity. Central London features major sights, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, which led to significant rent savings. I favored residing in intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more difficult to encounter in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was important for me. Frequently visited supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home culture in London. Southall, located in West London, hosts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, offers a bustling atmosphere with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to inhabit in London are contingent on your interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.