Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may seem brief, I have gained substantial insights. London pulsates with life, not only due to its varied housing choices but also because of its vibrant communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student residences and private rentals come with an array of features, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently organize viewings of apartments, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to examine possible housing online, revealing details about amenities and their closeness to public transportation.
In my quest for accommodation, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. London is structured into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The city is equipped with an exceptional transport network, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy movement between zones. I intended to minimize travel expenses since journeying between zones could reach up to £5.25 each day, hence I opted to walk short distances rather than relying on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London, with fare prices differing according to distance and train company pricing. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I attended university with a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to interact with individuals from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, something that would have been more difficult through private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was vital for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical choices are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural landscape, presenting a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for a sense of familiarity with their home country while in London. Southall in West London is home to a considerable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is celebrated for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on your interests and requirements. To discover a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this exceptional city.