Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just for its varied housing alternatives but also for its communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options close at hand. Both student residences and private lodgings include choices such as ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations on the internet, review amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In searching for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London for proximity to prominent attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London’s transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between the zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys could cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for these services differ based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, which substantially reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from different backgrounds and age groups, a combination that’s trickier to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. The vicinity to essential shops, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a range of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek echoes of their home culture in London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community characterized by Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few examples of community neighbourhoods.
The prime locations in London depend on personal interests and requirements. While seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.