Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated the nine-month mark of my residency in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, I’ve acquired valuable perspectives during my stay. London thrives with energy, presenting a broad spectrum of housing choices and dynamic communities. Students enjoy a plethora of options, including student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, communal and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly set up apartment viewings, while resources such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to investigate prospective living arrangements online, together with the facilities and distance to public transport.
In pursuit of a residence, my goal was a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transit system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures straightforward navigation and travel across zones. To minimize travel expenses, considering that inter-zonal fares can reach £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, addressing areas outside central London, with ticket prices differing according to distance and train operators’ fare policies. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering rental expenses. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix less commonly found in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential outlets, such as supermarkets and pharmacies, streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, creating a diverse landscape of neighborhoods. Many international students seek a sense of familiarity with their native countries while in London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is famed for its Afro-Caribbean population and lively music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area replete with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These examples merely scratch the surface of community neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, take advantage of the city’s varied accommodation alternatives, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.