Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem like a lengthy period, I’ve gathered some reflections throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, not just due to its wide array of housing options but also because of its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a multitude of choices available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for housing, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it straightforward to navigate and travel between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal commutes can cost as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university travel more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground framework, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery shops was essential for me. Common supermarket chains comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural fabric, presenting a colorful mix of varied neighborhoods. Many international students look for the comfort of their home countries in London. Southall in West London hosts a large South Asian community, featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new abode in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.