Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this may not seem lengthy, I have gained substantial insights. London is a bustling metropolis, presenting an array of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students are presented with multiple options. Both student residences and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom empower international students to browse potential housing online, evaluate available features, and consider proximity to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain close to prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s outstanding public transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward mobility and commuting across zones. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as traveling between zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily. Instead of relying on buses or the tube, I chose to walk shorter distances. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The costs for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the individual fare policies of each train company. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend allowed us to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from varied backgrounds and comparable age groups, a combination that is often harder to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with less expensive alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Accessibility to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural identity, crafting a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home country within London. Southall, located in West London, features a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic area filled with numerous Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural gatherings. These represent only a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.