Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it might appear brief, I have absorbed a lot during this period. London is a bustling metropolis, celebrated not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have an array of choices available to them. Both university residences and private accommodations present various formats such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their future living spaces online, including the amenities provided and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an excellent transit network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and transit across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I preferred to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas beyond the Underground network, extending to zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the specific fare frameworks of each train company. Central London features major attractions, leading to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to cohabitate, resulting in substantial rent savings. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, providing a rich mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with a plethora of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few representations of communal neighborhoods.
The most favorable areas to reside in London depend on your personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new home in London, relish the diversity and richness of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and embrace the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.