Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently marked my nine-month milestone living in London. Although it isn’t a long duration, I’ve gained several insights during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a vast range of housing choices and spirited communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in assessing potential lodgings online, verifying amenities, and evaluating distance to public transport.
In my pursuit of housing, I sought a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, sharing a room with a friend while attending university allowed us to significantly cut down on rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, making this mix harder to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural diversity, weaving a rich tapestry of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is known for its large South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area with an array of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of vibrant community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and richness of housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.