Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem like a long time, I have accumulated some observations. London is an energetic city, not only because of its extensive range of housing options but also due to its varied communities. Students have plenty of alternatives available to them. Both university accommodations and private housing offer various choices, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can easily organize apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, along with details about their amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to reside, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to be close to popular attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London features a top-notch transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel between zones. I personally sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching zones further out from central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structures of different train companies. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I began university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which greatly lowered our rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to meet individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a scenario less common in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time for errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighbourhood in London can be tough. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural identity, providing a rich array of diverse neighbourhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, situated in West London, is home to a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are only a few examples of community-centric neighbourhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When seeking a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the comfort and excitement of this extraordinary city.