Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. Although it may not appear extensive, I’ve acquired some perspectives throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not only due to its varied living arrangements but also because of its multicultural communities. Students have a wide array of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private housing present choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, encompassing amenities and the distance to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I targeted Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transit system, including the underground, buses, and trains, allows for simple navigation across zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can reach £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services stretch beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare policy of each train operator. The prime attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share a room and notably decrease our rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations to meet individuals from varied backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination harder to find in private housing.
Living near grocery shops was essential for me. Popular supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to vital stores like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students look for a connection to their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music atmosphere. Chinatown in London’s West End is filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London rely on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new place in London, embrace the variety and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.