Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it might not appear lengthy, I have garnered some observations throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not solely due to its various housing choices but also because of its eclectic communities. Students have numerous options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and singular rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential accommodations virtually, verify available amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my hunt for a place to stay, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s remarkable transportation framework, encompassing the underground (tube), bus services, and trains, simplifies navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can be as high as £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services broaden beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travels on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The principal attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while at university significantly lessened our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a mix that’s harder to discover in private residences.
Living close to grocery stores was important to me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are central to its cultural identity, presenting a rich collection of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-driven neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent on individual preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrance of this extraordinary city.