Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not seem lengthy, I have acquired some valuable perspectives. London thrives with energy, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its dynamic communities. Students find themselves with a plethora of choices. Options for student housing and private rentals include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule viewings of apartments, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse prospective homes online, featuring details about amenities and access to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London offers an outstanding transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies traveling between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, covering areas outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which substantially lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, hoping to encounter peers from various backgrounds and the same age range, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for my lifestyle. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Living near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for connections to their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, offers a vibrant enclave abundant with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent merely a few illustrations of the community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London hinge on personal preferences and necessities. While hunting for a new residence in London, welcome the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.