Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months residing in London. Although this timeframe may not seem extensive, I have collected numerous observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing choices but also for its lively communities. Students can access a wide array of options. Both student residences and private accommodations present diverse selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing online, inspect amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making movement and travel between zones straightforward. I sought to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. Major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with fellow students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is often more difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on tasks, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents challenges. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, showcasing an intricate array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of the city’s housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.