Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may seem brief, I’ve gained significant insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing alternatives and energetic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, with both student accommodations and private lodgings offering options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including accessible amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near major sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an excellent transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and journey between zones. Personally, I sought to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone trips on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a companion, and we arranged to share a room, significantly decreasing rent costs. I was in favor of intercollegiate student residences to interact with students from various backgrounds and of similar ages, which would have been challenging through private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores nearby, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich blend of varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.