Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not seem extensive, I have acquired a significant amount of knowledge. London boasts a vibrant atmosphere, enriched not only by a wide range of housing options but also by its various communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private housing offer selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house sharing. For home students, booking apartment viewings is a breeze, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore their prospective accommodations online, showcasing amenities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living arrangement, I sought to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social gatherings, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy movement and travel across zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to £5.25 daily. Consequently, I opted to walk short distances rather than utilize a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs for university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach areas outside the Underground network, extending into zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services depend on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a companion, and we decided to share a room, dramatically cutting down on rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and the same age group, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarkets comprise Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are fundamental to its cultural essence, providing varied neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to connect with their home country while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery outlets, and boutiques for traditional attire. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most desirable areas to reside in London are contingent upon your personal preferences and requirements. While looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.