Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Even though it may not seem extensive, I have gained several perspectives along the way. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options available, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, inclusive of ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students have the advantage of easily scheduling apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring prospective accommodations online, along with details on amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for a place to live, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major sights, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and commuting between zones effortless. To manage travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal fares can climb to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high living costs near Central London’s prominent attractions are notable. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly alleviating rent burdens. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during exam weeks.
Selecting a neighborhood can be demanding. London’s diverse ethnic communities contribute significantly to its cultural depth, providing a wide array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for connections to their home cultures within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few of the community-oriented neighborhoods available.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in this city, embrace the variety and abundance of housing options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and revel in the accessibility and vibrancy of this exceptional place.