Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I commemorated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration might appear brief, I’ve acquired several perspectives along the way. London is a dynamic metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its spirited communities. Students are presented with numerous alternatives. Both university accommodation and private housing comprise diverse choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment tours, while international students may utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to maintain proximity to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London showcases an outstanding transport system, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling straightforward navigation and travel between zones. To economize on travel expenses, which can soar to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card alternatives have made university journeys more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, greatly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private housing.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is no easy feat. The city’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity with their home nations within London. Southall, in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian dining spots, grocery outlets, and traditional attire shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the bustling West End of London, is a vibrant district replete with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the city’s diversity and abundance of housing options, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.