Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not seem considerable, I have acquired several perspectives. London is a vibrant metropolis, not solely for its myriad housing options but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom permit international students to explore prospective lodgings online, inclusive of amenities and proximity to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain in proximity to main attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation across the city and travel between zones. My goal was to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal journeys can accumulate to £5.25 daily. I chose to stroll short distances rather than utilize buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. Central London’s prime attractions lead to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university with a companion allowed us to share a room, markedly lowering rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is difficult to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential to me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with economical alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is no easy task. London’s ethnic communities are integral to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of diverse districts. Many international students pursue the comfort of their home country’s familiarity in London. Southall, located in West London, accommodates a significant South Asian population with Indian dining options, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, positioned in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a fraction of the community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. To locate a new abode in London, harness the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, discover cultural enclaves, and indulge in the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.