Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear lengthy, I’ve gathered several observations throughout this period. London is a bustling metropolis, rich not just in various housing alternatives but also in dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals provide a range of choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and solo rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore potential lodgings online, review the facilities, and evaluate their closeness to public transit.
During my hunt for living quarters, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain near prominent attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London has an outstanding transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which aids in seamless navigation and travel between zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel costs since crossing zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I selected to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. However, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Also, London Overground and National Rail services encompass areas outside the Underground network, reaching zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ according to distance and the fare structure of each rail company. The high living expenses in Central London are attributed to its major attractions. Luckily, having a friend in university enabled us to share a room, greatly reducing our rent expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age groups, which would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Popular supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with lower-cost alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies helps save time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses a challenge. The ethnic communities of London are pivotal to its cultural essence, providing a vivid blend of various neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek to find a sense of familiarity with their home countries in London. Southall, located in West London, has a prominent South Asian community featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing outlets. Brixton, situated in South London, is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the center of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for new accommodation in London, embrace the diversity and richness of its housing options, discover cultural neighborhoods, and enjoy the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.