Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear to be a lengthy duration, I have gained extensive insights throughout this period. London is an energetic city that presents a plethora of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students have an array of options available, such as student residences and private rentals featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing online, review available facilities, and locate nearby public transportation connections.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s sophisticated transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation around the city and travel between zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal travel could accumulate to £5.25 daily, opting instead to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending to zones beyond central London, with prices varying according to distance and the fare structures of train companies. The significant living costs in Central London’s prime attractions were offset by sharing a room with a friend at university, leading to considerable rent savings. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which would have been more challenging with private accommodations.
Having grocery stores within proximity was essential for me. Common supermarkets such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op were available, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to indispensable shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its own set of challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, providing varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home cultures while in London. Southall in West London features a prominent South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, boasts numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural events. These exemplify just a few of the community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary depending on personal preferences and necessities. When in search of a new place in London, take advantage of the city’s diverse housing options, immerse yourself in cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and exhilaration this extraordinary city offers.