Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I have gleaned several insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a broad array of housing choices and multicultural communities. Students find themselves with numerous options available. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential living spaces online, review facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, entertainment centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying travel and movement between zones. To mitigate travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can accumulate to £5.25 a day, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground to areas outside central London, with ticket prices differing based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The notable attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly diminished our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student residences to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a vibrant mosaic of diverse localities. Numerous international students tend to look for aspects of their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, contains a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with countless Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community areas.
The optimal locations to reside in London are influenced by individual preferences and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, relish the city’s diverse and rich housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.