Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired various insights during this period. London is a dynamic city, characterized not only by its varied housing selections but also its lively communities. Students have numerous options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, including facilities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I targeted a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and commuting across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university much more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on the distance and the fare scheme of each train operator. The notable attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share accommodation and significantly lower our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds of similar age, a mix that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, enriching its diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. 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, is a bustling zone filled with various Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural festivities. These represent merely a handful of community-rich areas.
The optimal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its housing options, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.