Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Though it might not seem like a significant duration, I have gathered some observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city, celebrated for its varied housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students can choose from a wide array of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide a multitude of choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings of apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible housing online, review amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my pursuit of accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a robust transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to travel and move between zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses, since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare regulations of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, greatly reducing our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and age groups, which is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural makeup, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their home country within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community complete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling area filled with a myriad of Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and vibrancy of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.