Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired some observations. London is an energetic metropolis, recognized for its varied housing selections and lively communities. Students have a wide array of options at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private residences present various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, check available facilities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for living arrangements, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to major landmarks, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigation and travel between zones straightforward. I aimed to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can reach £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services vary based on distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more challenging to discover in private rentals.
Living nearby grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is complex. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a rich variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London pursue a sense of familiarity with their native countries. Southall, in West London, features a prominent South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, in South London, is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for residency in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.