Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I have completed nine months of living in London. While this duration may not be lengthy, I’ve gathered some experiences. London is an energetic city, providing a broad range of housing alternatives and lively communities. Students have a plethora of choices available, including ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and private rooms, studio flats, and house shares in both student residences and private lodgings. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while international students can utilize sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to explore potential housing options online, review amenities, and evaluate accessibility to public transport.
During my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to remain close to key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is categorized into six zones, with zones one and two being the most central. London’s superb transportation system, which includes the underground (tube), buses, and trains, makes it easy to navigate and travel between zones. To minimize travel expenses, which may amount to £5.25 daily for inter-zonal journeys, I chose to walk short distances rather than rely on buses or the tube. However, the availability of oyster card options has enhanced affordability for university commutes. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, serving regions outside of central London, with ticket prices varying based on distance and train company fare structures. The high living costs near Central London’s key attractions were offset by sharing a room with a friend, allowing us to significantly reduce our rental expenses. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age brackets, which is harder to find in private housing arrangements.
Living in proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarket chains include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood in London can be daunting. The city’s ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, offering a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods. International students often seek familiarity with their home cultures within London. Southall in West London is home to a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton in South London is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic 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 are merely examples of community neighborhoods.
The best places to reside in London are contingent on personal preferences and requirements. When searching for a new residence in London, take advantage of the diverse and rich accommodation options, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.