Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe isn’t particularly long, I’ve gathered several observations. London is an energetic metropolis, not merely for its extensive housing options but also for its multifaceted communities. Students have a plethora of selections available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals offer alternatives like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to digitally survey prospective places, review amenities, and evaluate closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London showcases an outstanding transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to diminish travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have rendered commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside the central hub. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare policies of individual train companies. The significant attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I attended university with a friend, and we shared a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more challenging to discover in private housing.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam season.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a vital part of its cultural fabric, presenting a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students in London crave the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant hub filled with a variety of Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable locations to reside in London vary according to personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, delve into cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.