Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I have acquired some valuable observations. London is a vibrant metropolis, noted not only for its wide-ranging housing choices but also for its varied communities. Students have a plethora of options available right at their feet. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing options online, verify amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a place to call home, I intended to lease a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which eases navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily. Therefore, I chose to stroll short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. In addition, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ depending on distance and the pricing system of each railway company. Central London features significant attractions, leading to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I began university with a friend, and we agreed to share a room, considerably lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, which is often more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being close to grocery outlets was important to me. Common grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential retail stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London is a daunting task. The city’s ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, presenting a rich array of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek comfort in familiar surroundings reminiscent of their homeland while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, boasting Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the center of London’s West End, is a bustling enclave with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to reside in London rely on personal interests and demands. When searching for a new abode in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.