Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I have acquired several perspectives throughout this time. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing choices but also by its lively neighborhoods. Students have a myriad of options available. Both university housing and private rentals present a range of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse their potential accommodations online, verify available amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two regarded as the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies commuting and movement across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to higher living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, greatly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating encounters with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a fundamental part of its cultural identity, providing a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire a connection to their home countries. Southall, located in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal places to live in London are based on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on a search for a new domicile in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.