Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering a range of living arrangements and a plethora of communities. Students benefit from a multitude of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature offerings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, verify available facilities, and evaluate vicinity to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two representing the heart of it all. London’s transport system is outstanding, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying movement and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting for university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground framework, extending into areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The high cost of living near Central London’s key attractions can be daunting. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that can be harder to discover in private rentals.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Notable chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time spent on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling locale filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a fraction of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.