Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I reached the milestone of nine months residing in London. Although this timeframe might appear brief, I’ve acquired some reflections throughout this period. London is an energetic city, showcasing not just varied living arrangements but also its multicultural communities. Students have a wealth of choices available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students have the advantage of easily scheduling apartment tours, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom assist international students in exploring possible housing online, reviewing available amenities, and evaluating their closeness to public transit.
During my pursuit for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, vibrant social scenes, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates easy navigation and zone-to-zone travel. Personally, I sought to minimize my travel expenses, as inter-zonal fares can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare policies of each train service. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university alongside a friend, and we resolved to share a room, greatly reducing our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from a range of backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that would be more challenging to encounter in private housing.
Proximity to supermarkets was essential for me. Common grocery stores include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op; more budget-friendly options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlined my errands, particularly during exam times.
Deciding on a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural tapestry, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their native cultures. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring numerous Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on your preferences and requirements. When pursuing a new home in London, welcome the diversity and richness of its living options, explore cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and excitement this extraordinary city offers.