Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month mark of residing in London. Though my time here is relatively brief, I have acquired a wealth of experience. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its varied housing opportunities but also for its diverse communities. Students have a variety of options available, ranging from student residences to private rentals, encompassing ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore possible accommodations online, verify amenities, and locate public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize transport expenses, as traveling between zones can reach up to £5.25 each day. Therefore, I opted to walk short distances instead of taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect areas beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Inter-zone travel fares differ depending on distance and the fare structure of the train operator. The costs of living in Central London are elevated due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I enrolled at the university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly reduced our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a diversity harder to achieve in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets in the area feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their homeland. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling zone filled with Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-centered neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and necessities. When on the hunt for a new residence, embrace the diversity and richness of London’s accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.