Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone residing in London. Although this duration may appear brief, I have garnered some perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its variety of housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students are presented with an abundance of choices. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, evaluate available facilities, and assess their proximity to public transportation.
During my hunt for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel among zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train company. The high living costs in central London are attributed to its main attractions. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit, which greatly lessened our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a vital component of its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of familiarity from their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with various Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These exemplify just a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residence in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.