Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months may not appear lengthy, I’ve acquired several observations throughout this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only due to its wide range of housing choices but also because of its multicultural communities. Students are presented with various options. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer features such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential places to stay online, showcasing available amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key sites, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a superb transit system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between the zones. Personally, I aimed to keep my travel expenses low as inter-zonal journeys can reach up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more cost-effective. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the tube lines, serving areas surrounding central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of every train company. The primary attractions of Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to cohabitate, considerably lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, wishing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a blend that is harder to come by in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Leading supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to necessary shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s diverse communities add to its cultural essence, providing a rich blend of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London search for the comfort of their homeland. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. At the heart of London’s West End, Chinatown is a vibrant area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a handful of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and necessities. When on the lookout for a new place in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the ease and thrill of this extraordinary city.