Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residence in London. Although it may not seem like a long time, I have accrued some observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a vast selection of housing options and active communities. Students can take advantage of numerous opportunities. Both student accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential living situations online, along with their facilities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social venues, and the Imperial campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones labeled as the most central. London’s transit system, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, aids in straightforward navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since commuting between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, accommodating areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London is expensive due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to split a room, greatly lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age groups, which would be harder with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood is a tough task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, offering a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a sense of familiarity with their home cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These examples represent just a fraction of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locales to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.