Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired several observations. London is a bustling metropolis, recognized for its varied housing choices and dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of options available, with both student accommodations and private residences providing amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, along with their facilities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the core areas. London’s outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal commuting can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of each train operating company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, which significantly cut down the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is often more challenging to find in private properties.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home nation while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Meanwhile, Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music vibe. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a lively hub with an abundance of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When embarking on the search for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.