Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I’ve completed nine months in London. Although it might not appear to be a significant duration, I’ve obtained valuable experiences throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its varied housing options but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a plethora of choices available. Both student residences and private rentals present options such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Local students can conveniently organize apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring potential rentals online, along with details about amenities and distances to public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, my goal was to secure a room in Central London, allowing me to be close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is divided into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport network, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel among zones. I wanted to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal trips can set you back up to £5.25 daily, thus I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside of the Underground network, extending beyond central London. Fares for traveling between zones on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the pricing structure of each train operator. The allure of Central London’s prominent attractions contributes to high living expenses. Luckily, I went to university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which greatly reduced our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student housing, as I hoped to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age ranges, which could have been more difficult through private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside cost-effective options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near fundamental stores like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, especially during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its challenges. London’s ethnic groups are vital to its cultural framework, showcasing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections with their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of the West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, delve into cultural communities, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this outstanding city.