Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although this duration isn’t lengthy, I’ve acquired some valuable observations. London pulsates with life, not only because of its wide range of housing options but also due to its eclectic communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite restrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange to view apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective accommodations online, verify available features, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I focused on finding a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centrally located. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as traveling between zones can tally up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground scope, reaching areas outside the central zone. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably lessened our rental costs. I had a preference for intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and comparable age ranges, a demographic group that is trickier to find in private accommodations.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket options include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of distinct neighborhoods. A multitude of international students in London searches for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian community, filled with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest locales in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of housing options, delve into cultural precincts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable metropolis.