Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I have gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its dynamic communities. Students have an abundance of choices available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while tools like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, featuring amenities and transport accessibility.
During my search for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social areas, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first and second being the most central. London’s superb public transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and movement between zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zone travel can reach £5.25 daily, I opted to walk shorter distances instead of taking the bus or tube. The Oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend further than the Underground system, reaching regions beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines vary according to distance and the pricing policies of the respective train companies. The high costs of living near major attractions in Central London can be daunting. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we shared accommodation, which significantly reduced our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies alleviates the burden of running errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. A considerable number of international students seek elements of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent just a few examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on your preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new home, embrace the city’s diverse housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.