Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
It has recently been nine months since I started my time in London. Although it may not appear lengthy, I’ve gained several insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, not just for its varied housing choices, but also for its lively communities. Students have an abundance of options readily available. Both student accommodations and private residences offer an array of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, and platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential housing online, examine facilities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to secure a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The metropolis is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London’s outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies traversing the city and moving between zones. I aimed to minimize my travel expenses since inter-zonal trips can tally up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card solutions have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, services like London Overground and National Rail extend to areas beyond the Underground system, reaching zones outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel with these services fluctuate based on distance and each train company’s fare structure. The major attractions in Central London significantly inflate living costs. Luckily, attending university with a companion enabled us to share a room, substantially lowering rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from varied backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that’s tougher to find in private properties.
Being near grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Closeness to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are crucial to its cultural diversity, providing a rich array of distinct neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity from their home countries in London. Southall, situated in West London, boasts a significant South Asian population featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London vary based on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new dwelling in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.