Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While nine months may not seem extensive, I have gleaned several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, providing an array of housing alternatives and varied communities. Students have numerous options available right at their doorstep, with both student residences and private accommodations offering choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, evaluate amenities, and determine accessibility to public transport.
During my search for a place to stay, I aimed to rent a room in Central London to remain close to significant attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the most central areas. London’s outstanding transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can amount to £5.25 daily, I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, covering regions outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services vary depending on distance and the fare structure specified by each train company. The central attractions of London contribute to high living expenses. Luckily, attending university with a friend allowed us to share accommodation, significantly lowering rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is often more challenging to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant mosaic of various neighborhoods. Many international students crave familiarities from their home countries while in London. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian presence complete with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown in the bustling West End of London is a vibrant locality featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal living areas in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. While pursuing a new residence in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its accommodation offerings, delve into cultural enclaves, and appreciate the convenience and vibrancy of this remarkable city.