Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I’ve completed nine months of residency in London. Although this might not appear to be an extensive duration, I have acquired several observations in this timeframe. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a diverse array of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them, which include student accommodations and private housing featuring amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, as well as shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment visits, while those from abroad can utilize platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective lodgings online, verify facilities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to secure a room for rent in Central London to stay near key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London offers a highly effective transportation network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes it simple to navigate and travel among zones. Personally, I wished to minimize travel costs, as journeys between zones can go up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. However, oyster card rates have made university travel more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground grid, reaching areas outside the central zone, with prices varying according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London drive living costs higher. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, significantly alleviating rent burdens. I favored inter-collegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cheaper options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s diverse ethnic communities are a crucial part of its cultural fabric, offering a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, centrally located in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the city’s accommodation diversity and richness, explore cultural quarters, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.