Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve absorbed several lessons throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing choices and vibrant neighborhoods. Students have an array of options available, from dormitories to private housing, which includes ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, review facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to stay near prominent attractions, social centers, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing seamless navigation and travel across zones. To manage travel expenses, given that inter-zonal fares can reach as much as £5.25 per day, I chose to stroll short distances instead of utilizing buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel expenses more manageable. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London, with prices differing based on distance and the pricing structure of each train service. The prominent attractions in Central London significantly contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, attending university alongside a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to mingle with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a blend that is harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery shops was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, particularly during examination seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in remains a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a key aspect of its cultural identity, showcasing a diverse range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall in West London is notable for its sizable South Asian community, offering Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-filled neighborhoods.
The optimal locations to inhabit in London are contingent on personal interests and preferences. When seeking a new place to settle in London, cherish the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, uncover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.