Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone residing in London. While nine months might appear brief, I have gleaned several observations throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, recognized for its array of housing options as well as its multicultural communities. Students have countless alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio units, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore possible accommodations online, including the amenities provided and accessibility to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I set out to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city features six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as cross-zone travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or tubes. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, connecting to zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these providers fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. Central London features significant attractions, which contributes to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, greatly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, with the hope of connecting with peers from varied backgrounds, a blend that is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own set of challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, offering a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Many international students search for familiarity from their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. In South London, Brixton is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music atmosphere. At the center of London’s West End, Chinatown is a bustling enclave filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent only a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London are influenced by personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing offerings, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the accessibility and thrill of this extraordinary city.