Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I have acquired a few observations. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a vast selection of housing alternatives and varied communities. There are numerous choices available for students. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, including facilities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, keeping me close to major sights, social locales, and Imperial’s campus. The city is stratified into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones effortless. To cut down on travelling expenses, since inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, accessing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high costs of living in Central London are attributed to its prominent attractions. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend while attending university significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to come by in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was important for me. Major supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on chores, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be difficult. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, showcasing a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for a sense of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, found in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, retail outlets, and cultural activities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most fitting areas to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When embarking on the hunt for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of housing options, uncover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.