Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Just recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. While it may not appear as an extended period, I’ve gathered several insights throughout this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, influenced not only by its plethora of housing selections but also by its multicultural communities. Students have a variety of options available. Both student accommodations and private housing offer amenities like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently arrange apartment viewings, while platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to virtually explore prospective lodgings, including the amenities provided and closeness to public transport.
In my search for a residence, my goal was to lease a room in Central London to remain near major landmarks, social hotspots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is partitioned into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an outstanding transport network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes getting around between zones straightforward. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenditures since crossing between zones can incur costs of up to £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, reaching areas outside the central zone. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The main sights in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, I attended university alongside a friend, and we agreed to share a room, significantly lowering our rent. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, anticipating interactions with peers from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, a blend that would be harder to encounter in private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was pivotal for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Close proximity to essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, especially during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood for residence can be daunting. The ethnic communities of London play a crucial role in its cultural fabric, providing a rich mosaic of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for a touch of home. Southall in West London is home to a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean culture and dynamic music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling district filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural events. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The optimal areas for living in London are contingent upon personal preferences and requirements. When scouting for a new residence in London, appreciate the diversity and richness of the city’s housing options, delve into cultural enclaves, and savor the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.