Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this time frame may not seem extensive, it has been quite enlightening. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options available. Both student residences and private housing provide alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future lodgings online, including available amenities and access to public transportation.
While searching for a living space, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones could cost as much as £5.25 per day. I opted to walk for shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Fortunately, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Inter-zone travel fares differ depending on distance and the fare policies of each train company. Central London is home to significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that’s rarer in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End showcases a wealth of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal interests and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.