Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this duration may seem brief, I have acquired a wealth of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its rich cultural diversity. Students are presented with countless options right at their fingertips. Both campus housing and independent accommodations feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, alongside shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, assess available amenities, and identify nearby public transport links.
During my search for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s remarkable transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy traversal and movement among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach up to £5.25 each day, thus I opted to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting for university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Prices for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing scheme of each train operator. The high cost of living in central London is driven by its key attractions. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, a feat more difficult in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies expedites errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a wide array of neighborhood options. Numerous international students desire familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian presence featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is home to an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and necessities. When embarking on the quest for a new residence in London, embrace the wealth of diversity and richness offered by its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.