Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may not be long, it has sufficed for me to gather some insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not only for its vast selection of living arrangements but also for its multicultural communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options at their fingertips. Various types of student housing and private residences include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to view possible accommodations, along with their features and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, my preference was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the core. London is equipped with an exceptional transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplify navigation and travel amongst the zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as travelling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, options with an oyster card have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, encompassing zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare system of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend harder to locate in private residences.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during the examination period.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in presents a challenge. London’s ethnic groups are fundamental to its cultural identity, providing a colorful array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London desire the comfort of their native culture. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian dining places, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, sitting at the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with myriad Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing prospects, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.