Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated reaching the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant city, characterized not only by its variety of living arrangements but also by its multicultural societies. Students have a wealth of options available. Housing alternatives, both student-oriented and private, include features like ensuite and suite-style bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, including available amenities and transit accessibility.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, allowing me to stay near prominent attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy travel across zones. I aimed to minimize my transit expenses, as traveling between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. Consequently, I chose to walk for short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card schemes have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching locations outside central London. Fare prices for inter-zone travels on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The high living expenses near major attractions in Central London can be daunting. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we resolved to share a room, leading to significant rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with peers from various cultures and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Finding a residence near grocery outlets was essential for me. Popular supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. The ethnic communities within London form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comfort of their home cultures. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian community, offering Indian dining, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent merely a few of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. To discover a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.