Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months might not seem extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives during this time. London is an energetic city, renowned not only for its varied housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have a wealth of choices available to them. Both student residences and private housing present multiple possibilities such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential accommodations online, including features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay near key landmarks, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, simplifies navigating the city and commuting between zones. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can escalate to £5.25 a day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university journeys more economical. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground infrastructure, reaching areas outside central London. Prices for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and each train company’s fare schedule. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, I enrolled at university with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which considerably lowered our rent. I preferred intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private residences.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets encompass Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies conserves time on errands, especially during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be tough. London’s ethnic communities form a crucial part of its cultural fabric, providing an array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for connections to their home countries in London. Southall in West London features a sizeable South Asian population with Indian dining establishments, grocery shops, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is famous for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, located in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The ideal locations to reside in London vary based on personal interests and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the diversity and wealth of its housing selections, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.