Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this might not be extensive, I’ve picked up a few insights. London is a vibrant metropolis, renowned not solely for its varied housing alternatives but also its diverse communities. Students have a wealth of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private rentals present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to preview potential homes online, assess the amenities, and identify the closest public transport links.
Throughout my quest for accommodation, I desired a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel among zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal journeys can reach as high as £5.25 daily. I opted to walk shorter distances instead of using a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have lowered commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach locations beyond the Underground network, extending into zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London boasts major attractions, leading to higher living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, substantially reducing our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds within the same age group, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private residences.
Living close to supermarkets was essential for me. Common retail chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op exist nearby, alongside economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a complex task. London’s ethnic populations are a vital part of its cultural tapestry, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian community accompanied by Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the vibrant West End of London, serves as a dynamic area filled with Chinese dining options, retail stores, and cultural festivities. These examples showcase just a few community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on your interests and necessities. As you search for a new residence in London, take in the diversity and depth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and allure of this extraordinary city.