Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration isn’t extensive, I’ve absorbed a considerable amount of knowledge. London stands as a bustling metropolis, celebrated for its variety of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students find numerous options readily available. Both student residences and private housing present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can swiftly organize apartment inspections, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore possible accommodations online, review facilities, and gauge closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to cut travel expenses since crossing zones can amount to £5.25 per day. I opted to stroll short distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The high living costs in Central London correspond with its prominent attractions. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, allowing us to share a room, which significantly reduced rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living near grocery outlets was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents its own set of challenges. The city’s ethnic communities play a key role in its cultural landscape, presenting a vibrant array of varied neighborhoods. Many international students yearn for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown in the core of London’s West End is a bustling enclave filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The best locations to reside in London rely on personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new abode in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.