Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though nine months may seem brief, I’ve gathered valuable experiences throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, recognized not just for its extensive array of housing choices but also for its rich mix of cultures. Students have an abundance of options available. Both student residences and private accommodations offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective lodgings online, including the services available and their distance from public transit.
In my endeavor to find a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to stay near popular sights, social scenes, and Imperial’s location. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation network, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for easy mobility and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize commuting costs, as cross-zone travel may amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond the heart of London. The fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent landmarks of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I was at university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which helped us save considerably on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with students from various cultures and similar ages, a combination that’s tougher to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery shops was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside less expensive alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies minimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Deciding on a neighborhood to call home can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their home country’s culture. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are dictated by personal preferences and requirements. When in search of a new home in London, embrace the variety and vibrancy of its housing offerings, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.