Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed a nine-month stint in London. Though this might appear brief, I’ve acquired several perspectives throughout this time. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a plethora of housing options and lively communities. Students have a multitude of alternatives at their fingertips, including student accommodations and private residences featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can readily schedule apartment visits while international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore prospective lodgings online, review available amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city comprises six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London has a superb transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel among zones. Personally, I sought to cut down on travel expenses, as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 per day. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and each train operator’s fare structure. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, I went to university with a friend, and we mutually decided to share a room, which significantly lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination less frequently found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand-running, especially during exam seasons.
Deciding on a neighborhood for residence is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural diversity, providing an intricate array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a sizable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional apparel shops. Brixton, in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in London’s West End, is a bustling quarter filled with various Chinese restaurants, stores, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The optimal living areas in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.