Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While it may seem brief, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized by its range of housing options and its abundant communities. Students have numerous selections at their fingertips. Both student residences and private flats offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
As I searched for a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, considering inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 daily, which led me to prefer walking short distances over using buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend out of the Underground system, reaching regions beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel differ based on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. The high living costs in Central London are associated with its major attractions. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations as a means to interact with students from varied backgrounds and comparable age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural tapestry, creating diverse neighborhoods. A lot of international students desire a sense of familiarity with their home nations in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new abode in London, take advantage of the city’s varied housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.