Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago marked the completion of my nine-month journey in London. While this duration might not appear extensive, I have gained considerable knowledge during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not merely for its wide variety of housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have ample choices readily available. Both student residences and private housing provide an array of options including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential accommodations online, along with details about amenities and proximity to public transportation.
In my search for a living space, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize my travel expenses as inter-zonal travel fees can reach up to £5.25 on a daily basis. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have remarkably lowered university commuting costs. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate according to distance and the fare structure of each operating train company. Central London houses significant attractions, resulting in elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was attending university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, significantly reducing our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is harder to achieve in private housing.
Being near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential stores, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are a vital component of its cultural essence, offering a rich array of diverse locales. Numerous international students in London search for the comfort of their homeland. Southall, in West London, is home to a vibrant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing boutiques. In South London, Brixton is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling enclave replete with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London largely depend on your preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new dwelling in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into the cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.