Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the milestone of nine months of residing in London. While it might not appear extensive, I’ve derived some understanding throughout this period. London is an energetic city, not just regarding its varied accommodation choices but also for its dynamic communities. Students enjoy numerous options at their fingertips. Both student residences and private housing present a range of selections such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private accommodations, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can effortlessly arrange apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom aid international students in exploring their forthcoming housing online, along with the amenities and public transport connections provided.
In my quest for housing, I sought to lease a room in Central London to remain close to primary landmarks, social centers, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London features an outstanding transport system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, which makes navigating between zones straightforward. I aimed to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal fares can amount to as much as £5.25 each day. I chose to walk shorter distances in lieu of taking a bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing regions outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these lines vary according to distance and the fare framework of each train operator. The major attractions in Central London impact the elevated living expenses. Thankfully, attending university alongside a friend permitted us to share a room and significantly reduce our rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to encounter peers from various backgrounds and similar age ranges, a combination that is more challenging to find in private properties.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets feature Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during examination periods.
Selecting a neighborhood is a tough choice. London’s ethnic communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Numerous international students look for the comfort of their native country within London. Southall, located in West London, boasts a sizable South Asian community complete with Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music atmosphere. Chinatown, at the core of London’s West End, is a colorful hub featuring countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These represent just a few instances of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London rely on individual preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, celebrate the diversity and richness of its accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.