Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Though it may seem brief, I’ve gained substantial insights. London is a dynamic metropolis, presenting a wide array of living arrangements and lively communities. Students can choose from various options, including student residences, private housing with ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, highlighting amenities and access to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I set my sights on a room in Central London to remain near significant landmarks, social hotspots, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. The transportation network of London, which includes the underground, buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation throughout the city. I aimed to keep travel expenses low, as inter-zonal fares can amount to £5.25 daily, thus choosing to walk shorter distances. Oyster card options have afforded cheaper commutes to university. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. The prices for these services fluctuate according to the distance traveled and the fare policy of each train operator. The high cost of living near Central London’s prominent attractions can be a challenge. Luckily, attending university with a friend enabled us to share accommodation, markedly lowering our rental expenses. I preferred intercollegiate student housing to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, a combination that is more difficult to encompass in private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while budget-friendly alternatives such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are also available. Being close to vital shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves significant time, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood presents its own difficulties. The ethnic communities in London are central to its cultural essence, providing a range of neighborhoods. Numerous international students desire the comfort of familiarity with their homelands. Southall in West London boasts a sizeable South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery stores, and clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and musical heritage. Chinatown in the West End is filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These illustrate examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal areas for residing in London are contingent on personal interests and requirements. In the pursuit of a new home, embrace the extensive accommodation varieties London provides, explore its cultural enclaves, and revel in the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.