Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, I’ve acquired various perspectives. London is dynamic, showcased not only in its spectrum of housing but also within its diverse communities. Students have plenty of alternatives around them. Both student residences and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and communal living. Domestic students can conveniently set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom give international students the chance to explore potential accommodations online, examine facilities, and gauge closeness to public transportation.
During my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transportation network, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since journeys between zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to walk shorter distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend their reach to areas beyond the Underground network, including zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services depend on distance and the pricing structure of the respective train operators. Central London comes with high living costs chiefly due to its attractions. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, resulting in significant rent savings. I leaned toward intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and of similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to find in privately rented properties.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time during errands, particularly in exam periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, offering a diverse array of neighbourhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native culture in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End presents a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent only a few instances of community-focused neighbourhoods.
The finest areas to reside in London rely on your personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, take advantage of the varied accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the practicality and excitement this extraordinary city presents.