Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
I’ve recently completed nine months of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I have gathered some reflections. London is lively, not just for its varied housing choices but also for its communities. Students benefit from countless options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private living spaces, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, examine amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
During my hunt for a living space, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to stay close to major attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six concentric zones, where zones one and two are the most central. London boasts an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to navigate and travel across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses because inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. Thus, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structures of each train provider. The significant attractions in Central London escalate living expenses. Luckily, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which greatly cut down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is harder to find in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies spares time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural richness, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for familiar surroundings reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London hosts a substantial South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music scene. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal interests and necessities. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.