Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While nine months may seem brief, I’ve garnered several insights during this time. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied living arrangements but also for its dynamic communities. Students have a plethora of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals offer options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, review available amenities, and gauge closeness to public transit.
In my quest for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to remain near key sights, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding public transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which simplifies navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I hoped to minimize transportation expenses as inter-zone travel can cost up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than take a bus or tube. However, oyster card options have lowered the cost of university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Tube network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was joined at university by a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent. I preferred intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with peers from various backgrounds and age groups, a combination less probable in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery retailers was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland exist. Accessibility to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities play a pivotal role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international scholars seek a sense of familiarity from their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community boasting Indian diners, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown in the center of London’s West End is a bustling hub with countless Chinese eateries, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and enjoy the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.