Conceived by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of my stay in London. Although nine months might not appear extensive, I have gathered several observations during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing selections and multicultural neighborhoods. Students have a multitude of options available, encompassing student residences and private accommodations with features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring potential residencies online, examining amenities, and evaluating closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain near prominent sights, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. London is organized into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. The city has an impressive transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to reduce my travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare structure set by each train operator. The major tourist attractions in Central London result in elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly decreased rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that is less common in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. The typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, complemented by more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own difficulties. The diverse ethnic communities in London contribute significantly to its cultural landscape, providing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. In the heart of the West End, Chinatown presents a variety of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These represent only a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal districts for residing in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. While searching for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.