Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not appear substantial, I’ve gained several perspectives throughout this time. London is an animated city, rich not only in its variety of living arrangements but also in its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private housing provide different choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, review available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superior transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize my transit expenses, as travel between zones can set one back as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network to areas outside of central London, with fares fluctuating according to distance and the fare policies of each train service. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, greatly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that would have been harder to encounter in private residences.
For me, residing near grocery outlets was vital. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to critical stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to live in poses its challenges. London’s diverse ethnic communities are central to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant district that features numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.