Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have acquired several insights. London bustles with life, featuring a wide array of living arrangements and communities. Students can choose from multiple options, including student residences to private housing, with amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students find it easy to schedule apartment viewings, while online platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view potential accommodations digitally, evaluate conveniences, and discover public transportation links.
During my hunt for a place, my preference was for a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is organized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most centrally located. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground, buses, and trains, simplifies city navigation. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk shorter distances rather than utilizing public transportation. Oyster card choices have made commuting to university more affordable. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network to areas outside central London, with ticket prices differing based on distance and train operator. Central London features elevated living expenses due to prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, leading to considerable rental savings. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, which is often more challenging in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for my needs. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural identity, presenting a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home culture within London. Southall in West London boasts a prominent South Asian community filled with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean heritage and lively music culture. Chinatown in the West End features a multitude of Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural festivities. These exemplify community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on individual preferences and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace its varied housing options, explore cultural districts, and relish the convenience and vibrancy the city has to offer.