Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I arrived at the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may not be extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives throughout my time here. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a multitude of housing options and lively communities. Students have an array of selections available to them, ranging from student residences to private lodgings, with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily set up apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate future living arrangements online, evaluate amenities, and gauge the closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside central London, with prices fluctuating based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living expenses in Central London are influenced by the numerous significant attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share accommodations, greatly lowering our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a scenario less common in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. The major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Determining a suitable neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities in London are vital to its cultural diversity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, features a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.