Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone since relocating to London. Although this period isn’t extensive, I have absorbed a considerable amount. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also its communities. Students have an abundance of choices available. Both university housing and private rentals provide a range of options, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can seamlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, verify amenities, and evaluate access to public transport.
In my quest for residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London for proximity to significant landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement across zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travels more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend into areas beyond the Underground network, reaching outlying zones. Charges for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the tariff structure of individual train companies. The high living costs in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Thankfully, I attended university with a companion, and we shared a room, notably lowering rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that’s harder to uncover in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near crucial shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during the examination period.
Selecting a borough in London poses its own challenges. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, creating a diverse landscape of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of home in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, stands as a bustling hub with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These represent just a fraction of the community-oriented neighbourhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.