Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it’s not a lengthy duration, I’ve acquired some observations. London is a vibrant city, celebrated not only for its diverse housing options but also for its multitude of communities. Students are presented with a wealth of choices. Both university housing and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential lodgings online, review amenities, and consider accessibility to public transportation.
While searching for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain close to prominent landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features a superb transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for seamless movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. However, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s pricing structure. Central London’s prominent attractions contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mixture that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Major supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood in London poses a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse districts. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown in the West End provides a plethora of Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely examples of community-rich neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation offerings, investigate cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.