Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Not long ago, I hit the nine-month milestone of residing in London. Although this timeframe may appear brief, I have gathered some observations during this span. London is a vibrant city, not just for its diverse housing choices but also for the bustling communities that flourish here. Students have a plethora of options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared and individual rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can effortlessly arrange viewings for apartments, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to browse potential housing options online, including amenities offered and access to public transport.
Throughout my quest for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to remain near key attractions, social hotspots, 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 transportation system, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making traversing and traveling between zones hassle-free. Personally, I sought to minimize travel expenses since inter-zonal transport can cost as much as £5.25 daily. I chose to walk short distances instead of opting for a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have rendered university commutes more economical. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, reaching locales outside of central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services fluctuate depending on distance and the fare structure set by each train company. Central London’s prominent attractions play a role in elevating living costs. Luckily, sharing a room with a friend during our university years allowed us to significantly lower rent. I preferred intercollegiate accommodations to meet students from a variety of backgrounds and similar age brackets, a combination that is harder to find in private residences.
Being close to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, with more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Proximity to key establishments such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves invaluable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in is a daunting task. London’s multicultural communities are vital to its cultural identity, presenting a vibrant array of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London look for the comforts of familiarity from their home countries. Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian population with Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional apparel boutiques. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and dynamic music culture. In the centre of London’s West End, Chinatown presents a bustling locale with many Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural festivities. These are only a few illustrations of community-oriented neighborhoods.
The most suitable areas to live in London hinge on personal preferences and requirements. When on the lookout for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its housing choices, explore cultural hubs, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.