Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed my first nine months in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I’ve gained several observations. London is an energetic city, providing a plethora of housing options and dynamic communities. Students can choose from a wide array of accommodations, including student residences and private rentals, with options for ensuite bathrooms, suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to investigate possible accommodations, their features, and their accessibility to public transport online.
During my search for suitable housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superior transportation system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel and navigation across zones quite effortless. In an effort to minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university considerably more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying according to distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I shared a room with a university friend, which significantly lowered rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from different backgrounds and around the same age, a combination less frequently found in private housing.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s diverse ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural makeup, presenting a rich assortment of neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for connections to their home countries. In West London, Southall is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing retailers. Brixton, located in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.