Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve gathered some valuable observations. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting an extensive range of housing options and varied communities. Students have a multitude of choices, including student accommodations and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can browse websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, assess amenities, and locate nearby public transport connections.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city’s superb transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes traversing and traveling between zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made journeys to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing zones outside central London. Ticket prices for these services vary depending on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. Residing in Central London can be expensive due to major tourist sites, but sharing a room with a friend significantly lowered rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar life stages, which is more challenging with privately rented properties.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural mosaic, presenting a vibrant assortment of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling region filled with a multitude of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-centered neighborhoods.
The prime locations to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When looking for a new residence, embrace London’s varied accommodation possibilities, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.