Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my ninth month of residing in London. While it may not seem like a lengthy duration, I have gained substantial knowledge. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not just a variety of housing possibilities but also its rich communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both university accommodation and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, both shared and private rooms, studio flats, and housemates. Home students can easily schedule apartment showings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview their future lodgings online, review facilities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
During my quest for an abode, I targeted a room in Central London to ensure proximity to key sights, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the heart of it all. London’s transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel across the zones. I aimed to minimize transportation expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. Opting to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube was my choice. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground transit, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of the respective train companies. The living expenses in Central London are steep due to its prominent attractions. Fortunately, I enrolled at the university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly lessening our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to engage with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity reminiscent of their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community, offering Indian dining, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in the West End brims with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, appreciate the variety and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.