Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. Although it’s not an extensive duration, I’ve gained valuable perspectives. London is a bustling metropolis, notable not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its multicultural communities. Students find themselves with a multitude of options. Student residences and private housing provide various amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings of apartments, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential living arrangements online, with details on facilities and accessibility to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport network is superb, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for effortless movement and transit between different zones. I sought to lower travel expenses, as crossing between zones could cost as much as £5.25 daily. Hence, I chose to walk for shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to the university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside the central areas. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing policies of each railway operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend facilitated us sharing a room, resulting in substantial savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student lodgings to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s trickier to find in private rentals.
Living in the vicinity of grocery outlets was vital for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while economical selections like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist as well. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood proves to be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural identity, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Many international students residing in London desire a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a vibrant quarter filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.