Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching nine months of residence in London. Although nine months may seem like a brief span, I’ve gathered several observations during this interval. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its numerous housing choices but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential homes online, review available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on securing a room in Central London, aiming to be close to key attractions, social locales, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversal and travel between zones convenient. I tried to minimize travel expenses since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail networks extend beyond the Underground system to reach areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living expenses in Central London’s prominent attractions can be daunting. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, leading to substantial savings on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less evident in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The nearness to essential establishments such as grocery stores and pharmacies saves precious time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, providing a rich array of neighborhoods. A substantial number of international students search for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retail stores, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodations, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this remarkable city.