Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Though it may not seem lengthy, I’ve gathered valuable observations. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and lively communities. Students enjoy a wealth of options at their fingertips. Both university accommodations and private housing offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and SpareRoom grant international students the ability to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate their closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near main attractions, 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 outstanding transportation network, incorporating the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and journey across zones. To minimize travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal trips, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, addressing areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each railway provider. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, greatly cutting down on rent costs. I selected intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is trickier to find in privately rented properties.
It was vital for me to live close to grocery shops. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential outlets such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves precious time on errands, particularly during exam season.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. The ethnic communities in London are fundamental to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their homeland in London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These illustrate just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.