Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. in Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may appear brief, I have discovered various perspectives throughout this period. London is a vibrant metropolis, famed not only for its multitude of housing choices but also for its eclectic communities. Students can access a wide range of options. Both student accommodations and private rentals feature amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to view prospective lodgings online, detailing their facilities and closeness to public transit.
During my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to key sights, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is arranged into six concentric zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London has an outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to move around and travel between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal fares can be as high as £5.25 each day. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of utilizing the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. The fares for these services depend on distance and the fare policies of each rail company. The high living costs in Central London stem from its main attractions. Luckily, going to university with a friend enabled us to share a space, greatly decreasing our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar ages, which is more difficult to achieve in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby conserves time for errands, especially during exams.
Selecting a neighborhood in London presents challenges. The city’s ethnic communities form a crucial aspect of its cultural fabric, providing a rich assortment of diverse areas. Numerous international students seek a connection to their home countries while in London. Southall in West London is home to a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean population and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, serves as a bustling hub filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodations in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of its housing options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.