Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this period may seem brief, I’ve harvested several lessons. London is a bustling metropolis, recognized not just for its varied housing options but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a wide range of alternatives available. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible homes online, verify accessible facilities, and evaluate nearness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key landmarks, social centres, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, easing travel and navigation across zones. To minimize travel expenses, since inter-zonal trips can cost up to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside the central region. The fares for these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each railway company. The city’s prime attractions lead to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination less common in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Convenience to necessary shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents a challenge. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, creating a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for the familiarity of their homeland in London. Southall, situated in West London, features a large South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling hub with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural celebrations. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London depend on personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and revel in the comfort and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.