Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residence in London. Although it might not appear substantial, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing alternatives and lively neighborhoods. Students have a wealth of choices at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible lodging options online, evaluate facilities, and consider the distance to public transport.
During my quest for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to be near key attractions, entertainment areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones a breeze. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than use buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Central London hosts significant attractions, resulting in elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we decided to share a room, which greatly decreased our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations in hopes of connecting with students from a myriad of backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that is more challenging to find in privately owned properties.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets in the area include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a complex choice. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their native countries while in London. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. In seeking a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.