Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired several perspectives. London is an energetic metropolis, presenting a wide variety of living arrangements and dynamic communities. Students can choose from a plethora of options, including student residences and private rentals, featuring ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently arrange viewings for apartments, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international scholars to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate amenities, and determine their distance from public transport.
During my quest for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to key landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s public transport system, comprising the underground, buses, and trains, makes traversing and traveling across zones straightforward. To minimize travel expenses, as crossing zones can cost as much as £5.25 daily, I decided to walk shorter routes instead of taking the bus or tube. Oyster card options have rendered university travel more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and railway fare regulations. The high living costs in Central London are balanced by its attractions. Sharing a room with a companion allowed us to significantly reduce our rent. I selected intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Commonly found supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more economical choices such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near necessary outlets like supermarkets and pharmacies reduces time expenditure, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities enhance its cultural tapestry, showcasing a variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek comfort resembling their home nations. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian populace with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown in the West End boasts a multitude of Chinese dining establishments, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-focused neighborhoods.
The finest areas in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for housing, take advantage of London’s varied accommodation choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.