Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy time frame, I’ve gathered some perspectives in this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and dynamic neighborhoods. Students have a multitude of alternatives available to them, such as student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, evaluate available services, and consider distance to public transit.
While exploring living arrangements, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, bustling social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six interlaced zones, with zones one and two being the most pivotal. London’s public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to travel and maneuver between zones. I favored walking shorter distances to cut down on transportation expenses, as traveling between zones might cost as much as £5.25 each day. Oyster card options have rendered trips to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach out beyond the Underground system into outer zones, with prices varying according to distance and the train operator’s fare schedule. The major attractions within Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend during university helped us lessen our rent costs significantly. I chose intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a blend less common in privately rented properties.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities are vital to its cultural essence, presenting a vibrant array of different neighborhoods. A great number of international students seek a sense of connection to their native countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian population, featuring Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively musical atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in the West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These examples represent just a fraction of the community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new place to live in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, discover cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.