Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residence in London. While this may not seem like an extensive duration, I have accumulated various observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely due to its diverse housing selections but also because of its eclectic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential homes online, evaluate amenities, and consider their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London in order to be close to major attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel costs as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The high costs of living near Central London’s major attractions can be daunting. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend that is more challenging to discover in private rentals.
It was essential for me to live near grocery stores. The main supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, providing a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas for living in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and wealth of accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy that this remarkable city offers.