Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not be a lengthy duration, I have gathered various insights throughout my stay. London vibrates with energy, not only due to its array of housing choices but also because of its varied communities. Students possess a multitude of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom allow international students to inspect potential lodgings online, including their features and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London prides itself on a superior transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to the university more economical. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to the elevated cost of living. Fortunately, enrolling in university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lessening rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Having grocery stores in close proximity was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a sizeable South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, immerse yourself in the diversity and richness of its housing alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.