Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residency in London. Although it may not be a long duration, I have accumulated some knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have several options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective housing online, examine facilities, and evaluate distances to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I intended to find a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social gathering spots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London possesses an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which aids in easy commuting and travelling between zones. Personally, I intended to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating opportunities to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time during errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex choice. London’s diverse communities play a vital role in its cultural mosaic, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students seek out the comforts of home within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community filled with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, positioned in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new housing in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and take pleasure in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.