Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this isn’t a lengthy timeframe, I’ve gained some perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only for its extensive range of housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student accommodation and private rentals offer various choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential living arrangements online, along with the amenities provided and access to public transportation.
In my hunt for a residence, I aimed to find a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social hubs, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigation and traveling across zones convenient. Personally, I wanted to keep travel expenses low because inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more cost-effective. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services go beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less probable in private rentals.
Living near supermarkets was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Choosing a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic populations are crucial to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for a sense of familiarity with their homeland in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.