Composed by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I celebrated nine months of residing in London. While this timeframe may be brief, I’ve acquired several observations. London is an energetic city, presenting a diverse selection of lodging alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have a multitude of options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private lodgings feature choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly schedule apartment viewings, while websites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to investigate potential lodgings online, including facilities and closeness to public transport.
During my hunt for accommodation, I sought a room in Central London to remain close to significant landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s transport system, which encompasses the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allows for straightforward navigation and travel between zones. To cut down on travel expenses, which can amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on public transport. Nonetheless, oyster card alternatives have made commuting to university more economical. Additionally, services like London Overground and National Rail extend beyond the Underground system, covering areas outside central London. Ticket prices for these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of various train operators. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, attending university with a friend permitted us to share a room, significantly lowering rental costs. I preferred intercollegiate housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix that is more challenging to find in private accommodations.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to necessary stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s ethnic communities are essential to its cultural richness, offering a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Many international students desire familiarity with their home cultures while in London. Southall, located in West London, has a substantial South Asian populace with Indian dining options, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, found in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean culture and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is an energetic hub featuring plentiful Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few illustrations of community neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new home in London, embrace the variety and abundance of housing choices, delve into cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.