Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem lengthy, I have gained considerable insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its varied housing options but also for its communities. Students have a plethora of choices right at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing provide amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, including facilities and accessibility to public transit.
In my quest for a living space, I sought a room in Central London to stay close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies traveling and navigating between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can reach up to £5.25 each day. I opted to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered the costs of university commutes. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail routes connect areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Costs for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of different train operators. Central London houses many key attractions, contributing to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and the same age group, a mix that’s harder to find in private housing.
Proximity to grocery stores was a priority for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are available, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential services like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially in exam periods.
Picking a neighborhood is not easy. London’s ethnic enclaves are pivotal to its cultural identity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean demographic and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, in the heart of London’s West End, features countless Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.