Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I have gained a significant amount of knowledge. London is an energetic city, not only for its varied housing selections but also for its dynamic communities. Students are presented with numerous options right outside their doorsteps. Both student living and private housing offer choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse possible housing online, review amenities, and evaluate how close they are to public transportation.
While looking for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between various zones. Personally, I aimed to lower travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than take a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, considerably decreasing rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to locate in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood is not straightforward. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mix of diverse neighborhoods. A multitude of international students in London yearn for a connection to their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a large South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The best regions to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and depth of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.