Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this is not a long duration, I have acquired various insights. London is a vibrant city, characterized by its multitude of housing choices and its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings feature selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living spaces online, including nearby amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London boasts a superb transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can rise to £5.25 per day, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. However, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching regions outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. Living in Central London is costly due to its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural plurality, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian cuisine, grocery retailers, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End showcases a myriad of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When seeking a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.