Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of residing in London. While this may not seem extensive, I’ve acquired various observations. London is an active metropolis, characterized not only by its wide-ranging housing choices but also by its multicultural environments. Students have an abundance of options available to them. Both student residences and private living spaces offer features like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment visits, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential lodgings online, check facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transit.
In my hunt for accommodation, I aimed for a room in Central London to stay close to key attractions, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six circular zones, with the first and second zones being the most central. London has an exceptional transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, enabling effortless navigation and travel across zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can go up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have reduced commuting costs to the university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, heading into zones outside central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each railway company. Central London features major attractions, contributing to high living expenses. Luckily, I commenced university alongside a friend, and we opted to share a room, which significantly cut down on rent expenses. I was inclined towards intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, which might have been trickier to find through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural landscape, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek comfort from their native cultures. Southall in West London boasts a significant South Asian population, offering Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is famed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its living options, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.