Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this timeframe may seem brief, I have already gathered some observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, not merely for its range of housing alternatives but also for its multifaceted communities. Students are presented with various opportunities. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solitary rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment tours, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom provide international students the chance to browse potential rentals online, evaluate amenities, and consider the distance to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, entertainment venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with the central areas being zones one and two. London features an outstanding public transit system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. The significant attractions in Central London drive up living expenses. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while at university has greatly lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was important to me. Common chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for familiar aspects from their home countries within London. Southall in West London is known for its large South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London boasts a well-regarded Afro-Caribbean community and a lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, pulses with activity, showcasing numerous Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent upon individual preferences and requirements. When embarking on the journey of finding a new home in London, embrace the city’s diversity and richness in housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.