Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I marked nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear lengthy, I have acquired certain insights throughout this period. London is a dynamic metropolis, providing an extensive range of housing choices and energetic communities. Students have a plethora of options available, encompassing student residences and private lodgings that include ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange apartment viewings, whereas platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to browse potential living spaces online, along with their facilities and closeness to public transport.
In my quest for a residence, I aimed to lease a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two representing the heart. London’s transport infrastructure, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes navigating and traveling between zones straightforward. I sought to minimize travel expenses, as inter-zonal commuting can escalate to £5.25 each day, so I chose to walk short distances rather than take buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to university more economical. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend past the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone journeys on these services differ according to distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in central London lead to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I enrolled in university alongside a friend, and we made the decision to share a room, greatly decreasing rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and similar ages, which would have been more challenging with private rentals.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to vital shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood for living can be difficult. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Many international students search for the comforts of their home culture within London. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional attire boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, situated in the core of London’s West End, is a bustling hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are just a few examples of community neighborhoods.
The ideal places to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, appreciate the diversity and abundance of its housing choices, explore cultural neighborhoods, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this exceptional city.