Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Lately, I have reached the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this time frame isn’t particularly long, I have acquired some perspectives along the way. London is an animated city, fueled not only by its wide range of housing options but also by its varied communities. Students enjoy a multitude of alternatives at their fingertips. Both student accommodations and private rentals present choices like ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently plan apartment viewings, while sites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential homes online, including available features and closeness to public transport.
In my quest to find a residence, I focused on renting a room in Central London to remain close to 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 features a robust transportation network, comprising the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. I aimed to cut down on travel expenses, as traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 a day. I decided to walk short distances rather than taking buses or the tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have offered a more economical way to commute to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, encompassing zones beyond central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate based on distance and the fare systems of each train operator. The primary attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living expenses. Thankfully, going to university with a friend allowed us to share accommodations, significantly lessening our rent costs. I gravitated towards intercollegiate student lodgings, hoping to connect with fellow students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age ranges, a mix less prevalent in private rentals.
Living close to grocery stores was essential for me. Typical supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more budget-friendly options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland are available. Being near vital stores such as supermarkets and pharmacies streamlines errand running, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic groups play a pivotal role in its cultural tapestry, presenting a wealth of neighborhood choices. Numerous international students seek connections to their home cultures in London. Southall, located in West London, features a sizable South Asian population with an array of Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and thriving music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with countless Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural happenings. These are merely a handful of examples of community-focused neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a new home in London, embrace the city’s varied accommodation selections, delve into cultural districts, and relish the ease and vibrancy of this remarkable city.