Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not be an extensive duration, I’ve accumulated several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing alternatives but also by its lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both university residences and private rentals provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible lodgings online, which include detailed information on amenities and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six circular zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a robust transportation network that encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground system, extending into zones beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. Central London is home to numerous attractions, which contributes to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I was fortunate enough to attend university alongside a friend, and we decided to room together, significantly reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student lodgings, anticipating the chance to connect with fellow students from a variety of backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on daily errands, particularly during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, contributing to a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for the comfort of their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population, showcasing Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the rich diversity and variety of accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.