Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently hit the nine-month milestone of my residence in London. Though it might not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and varied communities. Students have an abundance of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private accommodations offer numerous alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, review available facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation between zones straightforward. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of respective train companies. The significant attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, substantially lowering rent costs. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination tougher to encounter in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on daily tasks, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be quite difficult. London’s ethnic communities significantly enhance its cultural tapestry, providing a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a large South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, bustles with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.