Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have gathered some valuable observations throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, characterized not only by its wide range of housing alternatives but also by its rich tapestry of communities. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer amenities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private bedrooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can easily schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential living spaces online, evaluate available facilities, and consider proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I intended to rent a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social centers, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s transit network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, ensures convenient movement and travel among zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses since inter-zone fares can amount to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, serving areas outside the city center. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the pricing structures of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Thankfully, attending university with a companion permitted us to share a room, greatly reducing our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that is more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural fabric, providing a remarkable variety of neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek the comfort of their homeland within London. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London boasts an Afro-Caribbean community and a vibrant musical atmosphere. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural gatherings. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on your preferences and requirements. When searching for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and wealth of its accommodation choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.