Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this is a relatively brief period, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis that presents an extensive array of housing options and vibrant communities. Students have a plethora of alternatives available to them, including student residences and private accommodations that provide amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while international students may utilize websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, review amenities, and evaluate access to public transportation.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to secure a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most centralized. London’s transit network, which comprises the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigation throughout the city. I aimed to minimize travel fares since moving between zones may incur costs up to £5.25 daily, hence I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas beyond the Underground system, covering regions outside central London. The fares for inter-zone journeys on these services fluctuate based on distance and the specific fare terms set by each train operator. The abundance of major attractions in Central London leads to higher living expenses, but sharing a room with a friend significantly reduced our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Having a grocery store nearby was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to crucial stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich variety of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students pursue the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music culture. Chinatown in the West End is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a handful of examples of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new dwelling in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of accommodation options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.