Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may seem like a short duration, I’ve gained several insights. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing options but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a multitude of selections available. Both student residences and private lodging offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local scholars can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom facilitate international students in exploring potential accommodations online, examining amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation system, inclusive of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigating the city and traveling between zones. I wished to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can soar up to £5.25 daily, so I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of each rail company. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and a similar age group, which would have been more challenging to find in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural tapestry, providing diverse neighborhoods. Many international students pursue a sense of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. In the core of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling zone filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.