Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated my nine-month anniversary of residing in London. While this duration may not seem extensive, I have acquired several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, rich not only in its various housing options but also in its multicultural communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private lodgings offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio living spaces, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential accommodations online, including the available amenities and their proximity to public transport.
During my search for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near 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 transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating between zones straightforward. I aimed to lessen travel expenses, given that inter-zonal travel could amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made university travel more economical. Additionally, London Overground and National Rail services traverse areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside of central London. Fares for travel between zones vary according to distance and the pricing structure of each railway company. The central area’s prime attractions contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, studying with a friend allowed us to cohabitate, significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to meet fellow students from varied backgrounds, a blend that’s more difficult to find in private rentals.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was important for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, showcasing an impressive array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students search for a sense of familiarity with their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, features a large South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diverse and plentiful accommodation options, explore its cultural enclaves, and take pleasure in the amenities and excitement that this extraordinary city has to offer.