Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve gathered some perspectives during this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its rich selection of housing options but also for its varied communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both student residences and private accommodations offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while services like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore prospective homes online, including their facilities and closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, comprised of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to travel and navigate between zones. I was keen on minimizing my travel costs, given that moving between zones could amount to a daily fee of up to £5.25. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside the central zones. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train operator’s pricing structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, which offered considerable savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, eager to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and of a similar age, a combination harder to discover in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during exam sessions.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. The ethnic communities of London are vital to its cultural essence, providing a rich diversity of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London crave the comfort of their home country. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is an animated district with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and excitement offered by this extraordinary city.