Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I passed the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this is not an extended duration, I have acquired some knowledge during this time. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting a myriad of housing choices and lively communities. Students have a plethora of options available, spanning from student residences to private lodgings, such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment tours, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to browse potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and gauge proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to popular attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making navigation and travel between zones quite straightforward. To cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more cost-effective. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside the central region. Fares for these services vary based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent costs. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, something that might have been more difficult with private rentals.
Having grocery stores close by was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies optimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be quite challenging. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural variety, presenting a rich array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, found in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic enclave filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.