Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy duration, I have acquired some understanding along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, not only for its variety of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available, with both student residences and private lodgings featuring options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. Domestic students can easily arrange viewings for apartments, while international scholars can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living spaces online, review available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to lease a room in Central London to stay near significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it straightforward to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since crossing between zones can amount to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, options with an oyster card have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on the journey length and the fare policies of each rail operator. The housing costs in central London are elevated due to its major attractions. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mixture that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London presents challenges. The city’s various ethnic communities are key to its cultural identity, offering a vibrant array of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of the city’s accommodation offerings, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.