Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear extensive, I’ve gathered several perceptions throughout this time. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their feet. Both university housing and private rentals provide a range of possibilities, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to virtually explore their potential lodgings, complete with details on facilities and access to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near major landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and journey across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure set by each train company. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to the proximity of major attractions. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to co-rent a room, which led to substantial savings on rent. I preferred campus-based student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and a similar age, a mix that’s often more difficult to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Living near necessary shops, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a touch of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian population offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music vibe. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London largely depend on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill this extraordinary city offers.