Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
A few days ago, I reached the milestone of nine months living in London. Although this may not seem like a long duration, I have gleaned some valuable experiences during this time. London is an energetic metropolis, providing a broad spectrum of housing alternatives and dynamic communities. Students have numerous options available to them. Both student residences and private lodgings present various choices such as ensuite or suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Domestic students can conveniently schedule apartment viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential lodgings online, inspect available facilities, and evaluate distance to public transport.
In my search for accommodation, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major landmarks, social spots, and Imperial’s campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two zones being the most central. London features an impressive public transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, making it easy to navigate and travel across zones. Personally, I aimed to minimize travel expenses since traveling between zones can cost up to £5.25 each day. I chose to walk short distances rather than use a bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have significantly lowered the cost of commuting to university. Furthermore, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, servicing areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel on these services differ based on distance and the fare structures of each train operating company. Central London, hosting major attractions, comes with high living expenses. Fortunately, I attended university with a friend, and we opted to share a room, resulting in a substantial reduction in our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations, hoping to connect with students from varied backgrounds and similar age groups, a mix that’s harder to find in private residences.
Having grocery stores nearby was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, alongside more affordable options like Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Being close to essential retailers such as supermarkets and pharmacies saves valuable time on errands, especially during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in can be daunting. London’s diverse ethnic communities are pivotal to its cultural essence, presenting a rich mosaic of neighborhoods. Many international students in London seek a sense of familiarity from their home countries. Southall, located in West London, is home to a significant South Asian community, featuring Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is recognized for its Afro-Caribbean community and vibrant music scene. Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively hub filled with numerous Chinese eateries, shops, and cultural festivities. These are merely a few instances of community-focused neighborhoods.
The ideal areas to live in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When on the hunt for a new residence in London, embrace the variety and richness of its accommodation choices, discover cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and thrill of this extraordinary city.