Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I recently hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I have gained ample experience in this period. London is a bustling metropolis, recognized not only for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of selections at hand. Both student accommodations and private rentals present a range of choices including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the convenience of arranging apartment showings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential housing online, check available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making travel between zones straightforward. My personal goal was to minimize travel expenses, as cross-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Additionally, the London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, connecting to zones outside inner London. Fares for cross-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The significant attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, considerably reducing our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is harder to find in private housing.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. The ethnic communities of London are pivotal to its cultural landscape, creating a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring numerous Indian dining establishments, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, in the midst of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few samples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are based on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new dwelling in London, one should appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing options, explore cultural hotspots, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.