Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some perspectives. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only due to its varied housing options but also because of its lively communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private rentals feature an array of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared housing. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange for viewing apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to check potential living spaces online, showcasing available amenities and closeness to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to find a room in Central London to stay near key sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is sectioned into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach up to £5.25 per day. Instead of relying on the bus or tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made journeys to the university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend to regions beyond the Underground network, reaching into zones outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The high living costs in central London are attributed to its renowned attractions. Thankfully, enrolling in university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, leading to significant savings on rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student living options, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
It was essential for me to live close to grocery stores. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a semblance of familiarity with their home country in London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean population and vibrant music atmosphere. Chinatown, nestled in London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural happenings. These constitute just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London vary according to individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of housing possibilities, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.