Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I achieved the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration is not extensive, I have garnered various insights throughout my experience. London is an energetic city, not only regarding its multitude of housing choices but also for its rich array of communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student residences and private lodgings offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, review the available amenities, and evaluate their proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can accumulate to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass regions beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I went to university alongside a friend, and we shared a room, which greatly lowered our rental expenses. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is more difficult to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies aids in saving time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses its challenges. The city’s diverse ethnic communities form an integral part of its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. A multitude of international students seeks connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-rich neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation possibilities, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vigor of this extraordinary city.