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 period isn’t extensive, I’ve acquired some valuable perspectives throughout my experience. London is a vibrant metropolis, not only owing to its plethora of housing options but also because of its rich array of communities. Students enjoy a multitude of choices available to them. Both student residences and private rentals present alternatives such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, private and shared rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while resources like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom enable international students to explore prospective accommodations online, including amenities and accessibility to public transportation.
During my hunt for accommodation, I aimed to secure a room in Central London to stay near key attractions, 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 superb transportation network, encompassing the underground (tube), buses, and trains, allowing for effortless movement and travel across zones. I sought to reduce travel expenses, as inter-zonal trips can reach up to £5.25 per day. I chose to walk shorter distances rather than using the bus or tube. Nevertheless, the oyster card options have made commuting to university more budget-friendly. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground network, connecting areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ, depending on distance and the fare policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Luckily, being in university with a friend let us share accommodation, significantly lessening rental costs. I favored intercollegiate student housing, hoping to connect with students from various backgrounds and similar age demographics, a combination that’s more challenging to find in private rentals.
Living in close proximity to grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets consist of Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, along with budget-friendly alternatives like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being near essential shops such as grocery stores and pharmacies streamlines errands, particularly during exam times.
Selecting a neighborhood can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities play a crucial role in its cultural richness, presenting a vibrant mix of neighborhoods. Numerous international students in London seek the comfort of their home cultures. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community featuring Indian eateries, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton, situated in South London, is renowned for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music scene. Chinatown, located in the heart of London’s West End, is a bustling area filled with numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are just a handful of examples of community-centric neighborhoods.
The optimal areas to reside in London depend on personal preferences and requirements. When looking for a place to live in London, embrace the diversity and abundance of accommodation choices, delve into cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.