Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of living in London. Though not a lengthy period, I’ve gained some perspectives during this time. London is an energetic city, not only for its numerous housing alternatives but also for its varied communities. Students have a wide array of selections at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can readily arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with the amenities and proximity to public transport.
While looking for a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near major points of interest, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. To minimize transportation expenses, as inter-zonal travel can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, encompassing areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share accommodations, greatly reducing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and comparable age groups, which would have been more difficult with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich tapestry of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-centric neighborhoods.
The finest locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.