Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I’ve gained considerable insight. London is dynamic, not only for its wide range of housing options but also for its communities. Students enjoy numerous choices at their fingertips, ranging from student residences to private lodgings that offer ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio units, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, assess amenities, and discover public transport links.
In my search for a place to stay, I was keen on a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 daily, leading me to opt for walking shorter distances rather than using a bus or tube. Options for Oyster cards have made traveling to university more affordable. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside the central core. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines depend on distance and the price structure of each train operator. The high living costs near Central London’s main attractions are notable. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, allowing us to share accommodation, which considerably reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was crucial for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while there are also more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London poses its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity from their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area full of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples illustrate just a few of the community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new home, embrace the diversity and wealth of London’s housing choices, immerse yourself in cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrance of this exceptional city.