Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I achieved the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve gathered some valuable perspectives during this time. London is a dynamic city, not merely due to its varied housing options but also its lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing provide alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily organize apartment viewings, whereas international students can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and consider proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an exceptional transportation system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifying navigation and travel across zones. To economize on travel expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more cost-effective. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Fares for these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, as I was attending university with a friend, we shared a room, drastically lowering our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private housing.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek comfort in the familiarity of their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to reside in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.