Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired several perspectives during this duration. London is an energetic city, presenting a plethora of living arrangements and lively communities. Students have a multitude of options at their fingertips, such as student residences and private living spaces with choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring future housing online, reviewing facilities, and determining distances to public transport.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exemplary transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and inter-zone travel straightforward. Personally, I aimed to lessen travel costs since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. Major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly minimizing rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is trickier to find within private residences.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops 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 play a vital role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown located in the heart of London’s West End serves as a bustling hub featuring various Chinese restaurants, boutiques, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s housing selections, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.