Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy timeframe, I’ve gained a few perspectives throughout this duration. London is a bustling metropolis, featuring a vast range of housing options and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private residences offer features such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared rooms, private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential housing options online, including facilities and distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can total £5.25 per day for inter-zonal journeys, I decided to walk shorter distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, encompassing areas located outside of central London. Pricing for these services varies according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which greatly lessened our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores in proximity was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. The ethnic communities in London play a key role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich blend of diverse areas. Numerous international students look to find connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a substantial South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing choices, dive into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.