Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I marked my nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although nine months may not be a lengthy period, I’ve gleaned some valuable experiences during this time. London is a vibrant metropolis, offering not only an extensive selection of living arrangements but also dynamic communities. Students are presented with a multitude of choices. Both student residences and private housing offer various arrangements such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and singular rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can effortlessly set up apartment tours, whereas international students can utilize platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential lodgings online, alongside the facilities provided and distance to public transport.
In my quest for housing, I focused on securing a room in Central London to remain near prominent landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is organized into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most centralized. London features an outstanding public transport system, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating straightforward movement across zones. I sought to minimize travel expenses as inter-zonal travel can amount to as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than utilize the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, the London Overground and National Rail services expand beyond the Underground network, reaching areas outside of central London. Ticket prices for inter-zone travel on these services vary according to distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Fortunately, partnering with a friend for university allowed us to share a room, significantly lowering our rental costs. I leaned towards intercollegiate student accommodations, aspiring to connect with peers from varied backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more difficult to find in private rentals.
Having grocery stores nearby was imperative for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly options such as Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential stores like supermarkets and pharmacies alleviates time spent on errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood poses its own challenges. The ethnic communities in London are integral to its cultural fabric, showcasing a diverse array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London yearn for familiar surroundings reminiscent of their home countries. Southall in West London features a significant South Asian population, complete with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with various Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few community-centric neighborhoods.
The best areas for residency in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for new lodging in London, celebrate the diversity and abundance of its accommodation selections, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.