Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not feel like an extended period, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, not only regarding its diverse housing alternatives but also its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of options available. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, showcasing amenities and access to public transport.
In my hunt for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the core. London possesses a superb transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I endeavored to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London’s key attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s more elusive in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as grocery outlets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of communal neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.