Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be an extensive period, I’ve acquired a considerable amount of knowledge. London is an energetic metropolis, renowned not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multifarious communities. Students are presented with a multitude of alternatives. Both student residences and private rentals feature choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Domestic students can efficiently arrange viewings for apartments, while websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective residences online, complete with amenities and access to public transport.
In my hunt for accommodation, my objective was to find a room in Central London to remain in proximity to key attractions, social hubs, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central ones. London’s superior transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates movement and travel among zones. I aspired to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside Central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these options vary based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high demand of Central London’s main attractions contributes to increased living expenses. Luckily, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which led to a significant reduction in rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is more challenging to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets are Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines task completion, particularly during exam time.
Picking a neighborhood can be quite daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for elements reminiscent of their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples from the community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When pursuing a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.