Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though this might not seem like an extensive duration, I’ve acquired some valuable experiences throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its variety of housing options but also its multifaceted communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student residences and private lodgings provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and co-living arrangements. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to examine prospective lodgings online, inspect amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an outstanding public transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies movement and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to reduce travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economically feasible. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network to areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, going to university with a companion allowed us to share a room, which notably lowered rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and comparable age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, in addition to more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam time.
Selecting a neighborhood is a significant decision. The ethnic communities within London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, presenting a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek connections to their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, hosts a sizable South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is noted for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End, is a lively precinct filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, appreciate the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.