Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although it might not appear significant, I have gathered some perspectives during this period. London is an energetic metropolis, not only for its range of housing alternatives but also for its various communities. Students are presented with a plethora of options. Both student residences and private housing provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and shared houses. Local students can easily schedule apartment tours, while online platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations digitally, examine amenities, and evaluate proximity to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to stay close to key landmarks, vibrant areas, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transportation network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing seamless navigation and transit between zones. I sought to lessen my travel expenses, as inter-zone commuting can cost up to £5.25 per day. I decided to walk shorter distances rather than taking the bus or tube. However, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground system, extending to zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the pricing structure of each train company. Central London, being home to significant attractions, increases living expenses. Luckily, I enrolled at university alongside a friend, and we chose to share a room, substantially diminishing our rent costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to interact with peers from various backgrounds and of similar ages, a combination harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more economical choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on tasks, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be a daunting choice. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural makeup, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for connections to their home countries within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a substantial South Asian demographic featuring Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean populace and lively music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a vibrant area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These instances are merely a glimpse of the community neighborhoods.
The best locales for residing in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new place to call home, revel in the diversity and richness of London’s housing selections, investigate cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.