Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I’ve acquired various insights throughout my time here. London is an ever-evolving city, presenting a plethora of housing choices and lively neighborhoods. Students are presented with a multitude of options, encompassing student residences and private lodgings such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate the distance to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my objective was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centers, 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 transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances over using buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground network, accessing zones outside central London. The prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the fare structure of each train company. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mixture that is harder to discover in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be perplexing. The city’s ethnic communities are a vital aspect of its cultural richness, providing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Many international students seek the comfort of their home culture within London. Southall, found in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, located in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, forms a bustling enclave with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These serve as only a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.