Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked the nine-month point of my residence in London. Though it might not appear to be a long time, I’ve acquired several insights throughout this interval. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only in terms of its diverse range of living arrangements but also for the thriving communities that exist here. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private housing offer selections that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential lodgings online, assess available amenities, and evaluate their distance to public transit.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room to rent in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a fantastic transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies traversing the city and moving between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize my travel costs, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of opting for a bus or tube ride. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing model of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Fortunately, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room and significantly reduce our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a mixture that would have been more difficult to obtain in private properties.
Living near grocery stores was crucial for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Residing near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London proves to be challenging. The city’s ethnic communities form an essential element of its cultural scene, showcasing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian dining establishments, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is an animated enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London depend on your interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and depth of the city’s accommodation options, discover its cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.