Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of my stay in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I have gathered some perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing options and lively communities. Students have an array of choices available, ranging from student residences to private dwellings, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential accommodations online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my attempt to find a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an excellent transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, with inter-zone travel reaching up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with fares differing according to distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, drastically lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighbourhood within London is quite a task. The city’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, offering a vibrant mosaic of neighbourhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity from their native countries. Southall in West London hosts a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few instances of community-based neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and necessities. When hunting for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.