Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I completed nine months of living in London. Although this duration may not be extensive, I have gleaned some experiences throughout my time here. London is a bustling metropolis, characterized not only by its eclectic housing choices but also by its array of communities. Students have a wealth of options available to them. Both student accommodations and private rentals present possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can conveniently arrange for apartment viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential rentals online, complete with their features and access to public transport.
In my pursuit of a residence, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, social venues, and the campus of Imperial. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features a robust transport network, consisting of the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it simple to traverse and move between zones. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal journeys can escalate to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university trips more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground system, reaching areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare structure of individual train operators. The key attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Luckily, I was at university with a friend, and we decided to cohabit a room, which led to significant savings on rent. I favored intercollegiate student housing, with the hope of connecting with peers from various backgrounds and ages, a mix that is somewhat harder to discover in private residences.
For me, residing close to grocery stores was essential. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on chores, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood is a daunting task. The ethnic communities within London are pivotal to its cultural identity, providing a vibrant array of unique neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music scene. Chinatown, positioned in the midst of London’s West End, is a dynamic area filled with a multitude of Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are just a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London ultimately depend on personal preferences and necessities. When looking for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation opportunities, discover cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.