Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it may not be a lengthy time, I have amassed some observations throughout this duration. London is a dynamic metropolis, not only for its various housing alternatives but also for its rich tapestry of communities. Students are presented with a plethora of choices. Both student accommodations and private housing offer options like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio apartments, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange for apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to examine potential homes online, including the facilities available and their distance from public transport.
During my quest for a residence, I set out to secure a room in Central London to remain in close proximity to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six overlapping zones, with the first two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which facilitates straightforward movement and travel between zones. Personally, I intended to keep travel expenses low since crossing zones can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than taking a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commuting for university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing areas outside of central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train provider. The major attractions in Central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, going to university with a friend permitted us to share a room, considerably lessening rent costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student housing, aiming to connect with students of varied backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been difficult with private accommodations.
Living near supermarkets was essential for me. Notable grocery chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more economical options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a challenging choice. London’s ethnic communities play a vital role in its cultural landscape, presenting a rich assortment of varied neighborhoods. Many international students in London desire the comfort of their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population featuring Indian restaurants, markets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area with an abundance of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London are contingent upon personal interests and requirements. When hunting for a new residence in London, relish the diversity and depth of its housing choices, explore cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.