Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I completed nine months of residing in London. Although it may be a short period, I’ve gained significant insights. London is an energetic metropolis, notable not only for its wide-ranging living arrangements but also for its eclectic communities. Students have a multitude of options at their fingertips. Available both in student housing and private accommodations are choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and single rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Home students can conveniently schedule viewings, while sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential residences online, encompassing relevant features and access to public transport.
In my quest for accommodation, I prioritized a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social venues, and Imperial’s campus. The city is structured into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London’s transport infrastructure, featuring the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitates easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to limit travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach £5.25 daily, prompting me to walk short distances rather than take the bus or tube. Nevertheless, oyster card options have made commuting to the university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend outside the Underground network, reaching areas beyond central London, with fare costs fluctuating based on distance and the pricing systems of different train companies. The high living expenses in Central London stem from its prominent attractions. Thankfully, sharing a room with a friend while attending university helped us save considerably on rent. I opted for intercollegiate student accommodations to engage with peers from diverse backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that’s often more challenging to find in private housing.
Being close to grocery stores was vital for me. Prominent supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable choices like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to essential shops such as supermarkets and pharmacies optimizes time spent on errands, particularly during exam periods.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s multicultural communities are essential to its societal framework, creating a rich mosaic of distinct neighborhoods. Numerous international students seek a sense of familiarity from their home nations while in London. Southall, situated in West London, has a sizable South Asian population, featuring Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing shops. Brixton, located in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. Chinatown, nestled in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area brimming with Chinese dining establishments, stores, and cultural activities. These represent only a handful of the community neighborhoods available.
The most suitable areas to reside in London hinge on your personal interests and requirements. While seeking new housing in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation offerings, investigate cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.