Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have marked nine months of residing in London. Although nine months might appear brief, I have gathered some perspectives throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, not only due to its varied housing choices but also its lively communities. Students have a wide array of options available. Both student residences and private rentals provide different alternatives, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily set up apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, evaluate the amenities, and examine proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a place to stay, I intended to rent a room in Central London to be near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for smooth navigation and transit between zones. I aimed to reduce travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. In addition, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Costs for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the particular fare policies of each train operating company. Central London hosts major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we decided to share a room, which considerably alleviated our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with less expensive options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Picking a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, showcasing a rich tapestry of various neighborhoods. Many international students in London look for a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, found in London’s West End, is an energetic enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of the city’s accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.