Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month mark of my stay in London. Although nine months might not appear to be a long duration, I’ve gained several understandings during this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a vast range of living arrangements and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available, such as student residences and private housing featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to search for future lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate their distance from public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London offers an outstanding transport network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making inter-zone travel and navigation simple. To cut down on travel expenses, which could amount to £5.25 daily for trips between zones, I chose to walk shorter routes rather than utilize buses or the tube. However, options like the oyster card have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to the distance traveled and each train operator’s fare schema. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share accommodations, significantly lessening rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a mix less probable in private accommodations.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural variety, providing a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for connections to their home cultures. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, 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 center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal regions to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in this city, appreciate the diversity and richness of its living options, delve into cultural enclaves, and partake in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.