Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this duration may appear short, I have gathered several observations throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not solely for its wide range of housing alternatives but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have an abundance of selections available right at their doorstep. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options such as ensuite bathrooms, suite-style facilities, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates simple navigation and travel across the zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses since inter-zonal transportation can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services connect regions outside the Underground network, extending to areas beyond central London. Travel costs for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate according to the distance and the pricing structure of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, which significantly lowered the rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which is harder to find in private residences.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Familiar supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural fabric, presenting diverse neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall in West London boasts a sizable South Asian community replete with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and fashion boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music vibe. Chinatown in the West End hosts numerous Chinese dining spots, shops, and cultural festivities. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London hinge on your interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.