Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy period, I have gathered some insights. London is lively, presenting a wide range of housing types and communities. Students have ample selections, including student residences and private living spaces with amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom help international scholars in exploring potential accommodations online, assessing facilities, and transport links.
During my search, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, which encompasses the underground, buses, and trains, ensures straightforward movement and travel across zones. To manage travel expenses, considering inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk short distances. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more affordable. London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching regions outside Central London, with ticket prices fluctuating according to distance and the pricing structures of train companies. Major landmarks in Central London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly lessened our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, something that might have been more challenging in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential. Common retailers include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood presents challenges. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural identity, providing varied neighbourhoods. Many international students seek familiar surroundings in London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community with a plethora of Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End features numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The optimal places to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home, take advantage of London’s varied housing alternatives, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of the city.