Penned by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may seem brief, I have gained various insights throughout this duration. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its multicultural communities. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences 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 enable international students to explore potential homes online, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my pursuit of a place to reside, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts a superb transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitate seamless travel and movement between zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses as inter-zonal transportation can cost up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London stem from its major attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend allowed us to share a room, effectively lessening the rent burden. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds, a mix that is harder to encounter in private buildings.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural diversity, presenting varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music environment. Chinatown in the West End is filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples highlight just a few of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, relish the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary metropolis.